Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. As a kid, I remember visiting my grandmother’s house and being welcomed by the smell of something sweet and buttery wafting through the air. It was always a treat to have a slice of her signature cake, which perfectly balanced a rich, gooey topping with a soft, buttery base. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a memory, a moment of joy shared with family and friends gathered around the table. Now, I’ve perfected her recipe, and every bite takes me back to those warm afternoons filled with laughter and love.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 5 mins
20 mins
45 mins
Medium
250 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet, Oven
What Makes This Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Special
A Comforting Treat
There’s a reason the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake has become a beloved classic in many households. Its unique texture and flavor profile make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. You get that rich, buttery flavor combined with a soft, gooey middle that just melts in your mouth. It’s a cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Easy to Make
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and manageable.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This cake is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or just want a sweet treat to enjoy at home, the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake fits the bill. It’s a dessert that pleases everyone, from kids to adults.
Customization Options
While the classic version is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Think about adding some chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness or incorporating seasonal fruits for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless!
A Delicious Tradition
This cake has roots in the South and has become a cherished tradition for many. Sharing a slice of Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is not just about enjoying dessert; it’s about carrying on a legacy of love and comfort. It’s a recipe that brings people together, and that’s what makes it so special.
Main Ingredients for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
The ingredients for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake are simple yet essential to achieving that signature gooey texture. Each plays a crucial role in creating the delightful layers of flavor. The blend of cake mix, cream cheese, and butter creates a rich foundation, while the powdered sugar adds the perfect sweetness to this irresistible delight.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The base of this cake, providing structure and sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a velvety texture to both layers.
- Eggs: Essential for binding and providing moisture.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the show, giving that gooey texture and tangy flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling, creating a luscious topping.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Instructions
Making Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is as fun as it is delicious. You’ll love the way the kitchen fills with the sweet aroma of baking as you follow these simple steps. Let’s dive in and create this delightful dessert together!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures that your cake won’t stick and comes out easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and one egg. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and crumbly. It should resemble a thick dough. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will serve as the cake layer.
- Wipe out the mixing bowl to avoid mixing flavors. Add the cream cheese, remaining melted butter, two eggs, and vanilla to the bowl. Mix on medium speed until the cream cheese is well blended and the mixture is smooth. You want no lumps left in this filling.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed. This will help prevent the sugar from flying everywhere. Once incorporated, switch to medium speed until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer in the pan. Make sure to cover it completely for an even bake.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The top should turn light golden and no longer appear glossy. You can test it by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly.
- After cooling, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top for a beautiful presentation. Slice into bars for serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to save some for later, freeze in a single layer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw before serving!
Things Worth Knowing
- Ensure thorough mixing: When combining ingredients, be attentive to the texture. Lumps in the cream cheese can lead to an uneven filling.
- Watch your bake time: The gooey texture requires precise timing. Keep an eye on the color to avoid overbaking.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smooth cream cheese mixture and an even bake.
- Don’t skip the cooling: Allowing the cake to cool completely is crucial for achieving the right texture before slicing.
Change It Up
If you’re looking to add a unique twist to your Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, consider these creative options to enhance your baking experience and delight your taste buds further.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to 4 days, but I bet they won’t last that long!
- Freezing: You can freeze these bars! Wrap them in plastic wrap and then foil, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
- Flavor Variations: Try incorporating chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor profile. You can also add a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing touch.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Occasions: This cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy evening at home.
What to Serve With Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
When it comes to serving the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, there are plenty of delightful options to complement its rich flavors. Here are some suggestions:
- Fresh Fruits: Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing touch.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, gooey cake.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light texture that contrasts nicely with the cake.
- Tea or Coffee: For an afternoon treat, serve with a cup of your favorite tea or freshly brewed coffee.
- Seasonal Touch: During the holidays, consider adding spiced nuts or candied pecans for a festive flair.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is truly a special dessert that combines simplicity with an unforgettable taste. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also creates memories to cherish. I encourage you to try making it yourself and share it with your loved ones. You won’t regret bringing this delicious treat into your home!
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Chef's Knife
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix A box of mix is a convenient way to start this cake.
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter Melted, adds richness to the cake layer.
- 1 large Egg Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened for easy mixing to create a gooey filling.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Melted, adds flavor to the cream cheese mixture.
- 2 large Eggs Room temperature for better mixing.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the cream cheese filling.
- 3½ cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens the filling and creates the gooey texture.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures that your cake won’t stick and comes out easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and one egg. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and crumbly. It should resemble a thick dough. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will serve as the cake layer.
- Wipe out the mixing bowl to avoid mixing flavors. Add the cream cheese, remaining melted butter, two eggs, and vanilla to the bowl. Mix on medium speed until the cream cheese is well blended and the mixture is smooth. You want no lumps left in this filling.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed. This will help prevent the sugar from flying everywhere. Once incorporated, switch to medium speed until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer in the pan. Make sure to cover it completely for an even bake.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The top should turn light golden and no longer appear glossy. You can test it by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly.
- After cooling, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top for a beautiful presentation. Slice into bars for serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to save some for later, freeze in a single layer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw before serving!
