Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of gooey butter cake, a beloved treat originating from St. Louis. This dessert boasts a luscious, creamy topping over a dense, buttery base, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this gooey butter cake is sure to impress.
Most of the ingredients for this gooey butter cake are common pantry staples, but you might need to pick up a few items if you don't already have them. Make sure to grab a box of yellow cake mix, cream cheese, and powdered sugar from the supermarket. These are essential for achieving the cake's signature texture and flavor.

Ingredients For Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Yellow cake mix: This is the base of the cake, providing a sweet and moist foundation.
Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the cake mix together.
Egg: Used in both the base and the topping for structure and moisture.
Cream cheese: Creates the creamy, gooey layer on top of the cake base.
Eggs: Combined with cream cheese to form the topping.
Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of aromatic sweetness to the topping.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the topping and contributes to its smooth texture.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When pressing the cake mix base into the pan, use a piece of parchment paper to help evenly distribute the mixture without it sticking to your hands. This ensures a uniform layer, which will bake more consistently.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
yellow cake mix - Substitute with homemade cake mix: Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. This mix mimics the boxed version and allows for more control over ingredients.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar texture and flavor.
egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for a few minutes. This works well as a binding agent in baking.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Use an equal amount of full-fat Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg. This adds moisture and a slight sweetness.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Use half the amount of almond extract for a different but complementary flavor.
powdered sugar - Substitute with homemade powdered sugar: Blend granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a powdery consistency. This can be used in the same quantity as store-bought powdered sugar.
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How to Store or Freeze This Cake
- Allow the gooey butter cake to cool completely before storing. This helps to maintain its texture and prevents condensation from making it soggy.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Ensure there are no gaps where air can enter.
- Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container. This adds an extra layer of protection against moisture and odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool temperature helps to preserve its gooey texture and rich flavor.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. First, cut it into individual servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
- Wrap each piece of cake in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the desired number of pieces in the refrigerator overnight.
- To serve, bring the cake to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This revives its gooey, buttery goodness.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the leftover gooey butter cake on a baking sheet.
- Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too much.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Microwave Method:
- Place a slice of gooey butter cake on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to keep the moisture in.
- Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Check the temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed.
- Let it cool slightly before enjoying.
Toaster Oven Method:
- Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the gooey butter cake on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray.
- Cover the cake loosely with foil to avoid over-browning.
- Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Allow it to cool for a minute before serving.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the gooey butter cake in the air fryer basket.
- Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
- Let it cool for a minute before serving.
Best Tools for Making This Cake
Oven: Used to bake the gooey butter cake at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg for the base layer.
Mixing bowl: Used to beat the cream cheese and mix it with eggs, vanilla, and powdered sugar for the topping.
Electric mixer: Helps to beat the cream cheese until smooth and to mix the topping ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowls and spreading the mixtures evenly.
Baking pan: The container in which the cake is baked. It should be greased to prevent sticking.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the powdered sugar accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract accurately.
Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to save time during preparation.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently mix your cake base and cream cheese mixture.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Non-stick spray: Use non-stick spray to quickly grease your baking pan.
Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing to save time.

Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 stick Butter, melted
- 1 piece Egg
Topping
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 2 pieces Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 16 oz Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix well and press into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla, and powdered sugar. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let cool before serving.
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