Description
Midwestern magic shines through this classic homemade gooey butter cake, blending rich cream cheese and sweet vanilla into a delightful dessert. Silky smooth layers promise pure comfort with each delectable bite you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) package cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups (480 grams) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
Eggs:
- 1 large egg
- 2 large eggs
Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the kitchen workspace by positioning the oven rack in the center and heating to 350F (175C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter, ensuring complete surface coverage.
- Create the foundational layer by blending yellow cake mix with one egg and melted butter. Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to combine ingredients until a cohesive dough forms. Press this mixture firmly and uniformly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a compact base.
- For the decadent topping, use an electric mixer to whip cream cheese until silky and free of lumps. Incorporate remaining eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, mixing until the texture becomes smooth and integrated. Gradually fold in powdered sugar, starting at a low speed to prevent sugar clouds, then increasing to achieve a luxurious, glossy consistency.
- Carefully cascade the cream cheese mixture over the cake base, using a rubber spatula to distribute evenly. Gently tap the dish against the counter to eliminate potential air pockets and ensure a uniform surface.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The surface should transform to a golden-brown hue with crisp edges, while maintaining a soft, almost liquid center. The cake will continue setting as it cools.
- Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for complete cooling. Before serving, dust the surface with a delicate layer of powdered sugar. Cut into squares and enjoy either at ambient temperature or slightly chilled for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- Enhance cake stability by using room temperature ingredients, ensuring smoother mixing and more consistent texture.
- Swap cake mix for gluten-free alternative to create a celiac-friendly dessert without compromising rich, decadent flavor.
- Check doneness by gently shaking pan – center should jiggle slightly but not be completely liquid, indicating perfect gooey consistency.
- Prevent soggy bottom by pressing base layer firmly and evenly, creating solid foundation that supports creamy top layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg