Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake

Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an indulgent experience that has been passed down through generations, delighting anyone who takes a bite. This iconic cake, with its moist, buttery layers and creamy, gooey topping, is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or even a special treat on a cozy weekend. Its origins may trace back to St. Louis, but this cake has made its way into kitchens across the world, becoming a beloved favorite.

If you’ve been looking for the most detailed, foolproof guide to creating the best gooey butter cake, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will walk you through the entire process, giving you the secrets to achieving that perfectly rich and decadent cake that melts in your mouth.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Gooey Butter Cake

To make Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake, you only need a handful of ingredients, but their quality and freshness are key to achieving that irresistible flavor.

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box (18.25 ounces) yellow cake mix: This forms the foundation of the cake. Opt for a high-quality cake mix to ensure the best results.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter is essential for a rich, buttery flavor in the base.
• 1 large egg: The egg adds structure and helps bind the cake together.

For the Gooey Butter Layer:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese creates the creamy, gooey texture that this cake is famous for.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure to the topping while keeping it soft and gooey.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the sweetness and brings warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds even more richness to the gooey layer.
• 1 box (16 ounces) powdered sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens the entire dish and helps to create the cake’s characteristic texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake

Let’s dive into the process of making this decadent dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and easy to follow. Here’s how to create the ultimate gooey butter cake:

1. Preheat the Oven

Before you start mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake will bake evenly once it goes into the oven. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Cake Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir the mixture until everything is fully incorporated. The dough should be thick but pliable. Once combined, press this mixture into the bottom of your greased baking dish to form an even layer. This is the base of your gooey butter cake.

3. Make the Gooey Butter Layer

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated, which will give the gooey layer its smooth texture.

Next, add the vanilla extract and melted butter to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the batter is smooth and without lumps.

4. Assemble the Cake

Now, take the gooey cream cheese mixture and pour it evenly over the cake base in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out smoothly, making sure it covers the entire base.

5. Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when the edges turn a light golden brown, and the center is set but still slightly gooey. Be careful not to overbake, as the gooey center is the star of the show.

6. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish on a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This will help the gooey layer set properly. If desired, dust the top with additional powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.