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Gooey Butter Cake

Easy Gooey Butter Cake with a buttery cake base and rich cream cheese topping that stays irresistibly soft and gooey in the center.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cake Base:
  • 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • For the Gooey Layer:
  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • Pinch of salt optional
  • For Finishing:
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  3. Combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg in a large bowl.
  4. Mix until a thick dough forms.
  5. Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  7. Add the remaining 2 eggs and vanilla extract and beat until combined.
  8. Gradually add the powdered sugar and optional pinch of salt.
  9. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  10. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base and spread gently toward the edges.
  11. Bake for 35–40 minutes.
  12. The edges should be set and lightly golden while the center remains slightly soft and gently jiggly.
  13. Do not overbake.
  14. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
  15. Dust with powdered sugar.
  16. Cut into 16 squares and serve.