Description
Treebeards Butter Cake is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a buttery cake crust layered with a smooth, sweet cheesecake filling. This classic Southern-inspired treat combines the ease of a boxed cake mix with a homemade cheesecake layer, creating a luscious dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Bottom Cake Layer
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (preferably Duncan Hines)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 cups powdered sugar, divided
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray a 15 x 10 inch jellyroll pan with nonstick spray to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Make the Bottom Layer: Using an electric mixer on low speed, blend the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until just moistened. Increase mixer speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared jellyroll pan. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer – Initial Mixing: On low speed, blend cream cheese, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar until combined and moistened. Cover the mixer with a large, clean kitchen towel for safety, then turn the mixer on high speed and beat for 5 minutes to incorporate air and achieve a smooth, fluffy texture. Return mixer speed to low and remove the towel.
- Finish the Cheesecake Layer: Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar to the mixture and blend on low speed until fully combined. Cover the mixer again with the towel, switch to high speed, and beat for an additional 5 minutes to ensure a creamy, thick consistency perfect for spreading.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared crust in the jellyroll pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into 12 squares for serving.
Notes
- Using Duncan Hines cake mix is recommended for the best texture and flavor consistency.
- Beating the cheesecake layer for extended times with a towel on the mixer helps incorporate air for a lighter texture but also prevents powdered sugar dust.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier blending and a smooth finish.
- Allow the baked cake to cool fully before slicing to ensure clean, neat cuts.
- This cake is best stored covered in the refrigerator and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
