If you’ve been longing for a dessert that perfectly balances a tender cake base with a irresistibly rich, creamy center, then this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with buttery goodness, velvety cream cheese, and that nostalgic yellow cake flavor, it’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Every bite offers a luscious gooey texture that melts in your mouth, making it impossible to stop at just one slice. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply craving a decadent indulgence, this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe delivers on flavor, simplicity, and pure satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged on a wooden table with a slightly weathered look. There is a red box of Duncan Hines Classic Yellow cake mix with an image of two yellow cake layers with dark brown frosting between and on top. Next to it is a large white bag of Domino powdered sugar with blue and yellow labels. Below these are a small box of Philadelphia cream cheese in silver and blue packaging and a red bottle of McCormick pure vanilla extract. To the left, four white eggs are placed in a clear glass bowl with a decorative edge. On the right, two sticks of Grade AA butter are wrapped in off-white paper. The overall layout is neat and the lighting is bright. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a dreamy Gooey Butter Cake. Each plays a special role — from the rich butter that brings moistness and depth to the soft cream cheese that creates that signature gooey center, to the yellow cake mix that adds just the right warmth of flavor and color.

Yellow cake mix: The base of this cake that offers sweetness and a fluffy structure.
Salted butter (¾ cup, divided): Provides richness and a tender crumb while enhancing flavor.
Large eggs (4, divided): Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a moist texture.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon, divided): Adds aromatic warmth and depth to both layers.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates the luscious, gooey center that gives this cake its unique character.
Powdered sugar (5 cups + extra for garnish): Sweetens and thickens the creamy layer while adding a delicate finish on top.

How to Make Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray that contains flour. This will help your cake release easily after baking and ensures a nice crust forms all around. Taking these small steps upfront makes the entire process smoother and the results flawless.

Step 2: Make the Cake Crust

Melt half a cup (1 stick) of butter in the microwave and let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs when mixed. Then, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, 2 eggs, and half of the vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix until everything is fully incorporated — the batter should be thick. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form the cake base. This crust sets the stage for the gooey goodness to come.

Step 3: Prepare the Gooey Layer

Melt the remaining quarter cup (½ stick) of butter and let it cool slightly as well. In a separate bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese, cooled melted butter, the remaining 2 eggs, and the rest of the vanilla extract. This combination should become smooth and creamy with no lumps. Slowly add in the powdered sugar while stirring gently until fully blended. This luscious mixture forms the gooey topping that makes this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe one-of-a-kind.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the creamy butter and cream cheese mixture over the pressed cake crust, spreading evenly. Place the dish on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Look for a slightly golden top with a thin, crisp crust — the middle will naturally have a dip and remain gooey, so resist the urge to overbake. This delightful texture is what truly sets this cake apart.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let your Gooey Butter Cake cool completely before slicing. Running a butter knife along the edges helps free it from the pan, preventing sticking. For that final touch, dust with extra powdered sugar for a pretty presentation and an added layer of sweetness.

How to Serve Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

A square piece of lemon bar sits on a white plate, showing three visible layers: a bottom layer of golden brown crumbly crust, a middle layer of bright yellow lemon filling that looks smooth and slightly thick, and a top layer dusted generously with white powdered sugar. The powdered sugar adds a soft texture and light contrast to the bright lemon filling underneath. The plate is on a wooden surface, and there is a green mint leaf in the background slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While this cake shines on its own, a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate it even more. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely contrast, fresh berries bring a pop of color and brightness, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can add a decadent finish. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream serve as perfect companions.

Side Dishes

Pair this rich and sweet cake with lighter sides to balance your dessert experience. A cup of fresh fruit salad provides refreshing acidity, a strong cup of coffee or a latte complements the buttery sweetness, or a simple scoop of citrus sorbet can refresh your palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, turn your Gooey Butter Cake into individual servings by cutting it into squares and placing each in a decorative cupcake liner. You can also layer pieces with whipped cream and fresh berries in a glass bowl for an elegant trifle-like presentation. This cake’s versatility allows for charming and festive displays that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Gooey Butter Cake keeps beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake where it can last about 5 days without losing its signature gooey texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Gooey Butter Cake for up to two months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to ensure it retains its creamy consistency.

Reheating

Warm up slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive that melting gooeyness. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the cake to dry out or lose its signature texture. Alternatively, enjoy it chilled for a firmer but still delicious version.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! While yellow cake mix is traditional and offers that classic flavor and color, you can experiment with white, butter, or even spice cake mixes to customize the flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different mixes might slightly alter the taste and texture.

Is cream cheese essential in this recipe?

Absolutely! The cream cheese is the key ingredient that gives this cake its signature gooey, creamy texture. It balances the sweetness and provides richness, so don’t skip it or substitute with something else if you want that authentic Gooey Butter Cake experience.

Why does the center of my cake dip after baking?

That lovely dip in the center is completely normal and expected. The gooey layer doesn’t set like a traditional cake, so it naturally settles as it cools. This is a hallmark of this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe and part of what makes it so special.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, look for a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your powdered sugar is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to slice this cake without it sticking?

Running a butter knife around the edges of the pan after cooling helps loosen the cake. Also, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for smooth slicing. This prevents sticking and keeps your slices clean and neat.

Final Thoughts

This Gooey Butter Cake Recipe holds a special place in my heart for its perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. It’s a wonderful way to impress friends and family without fuss, delivering moist cake and that irresistible gooey center we all crave. Trust me, once you make it, it will become your go-to dessert for celebrations or anytime you need a little extra sweetness in your life!

Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need