Gooey butter cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine sinking your fork into a rich, buttery slice, where the top has this delightful crust, and underneath lies a soft, gooey treasure that practically begs you to take another bite. rich chocolate ganache The sweet aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and promising a flavor explosion that’s both decadent and comforting.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood in St. Louis, where gooey butter cake reigns supreme. Every family gathering was an opportunity for my aunt to whip out her famous recipe, her secret weapon for winning hearts (and stomachs). Whether it was Thanksgiving or just a random Tuesday, this cake made every occasion feel special. Just the thought of it brings back memories filled with laughter, chatter, and a whole lot of sugar-induced bliss. For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This gooey butter cake is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly delicious and addictively sweet.
- It looks stunning on any dessert table with its golden crust and irresistible filling.
- The versatility allows you to experiment by adding flavors or toppings according to your preference.
- Perfect for any celebration or just because you deserve a treat!
Ingredients for gooey butter cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cake, giving it structure while maintaining that gooey texture we crave.
- Sugar: Sweetens the deal! Both granulated sugar and powdered sugar are essential for that perfect sweetness.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; it adds richness to the batter.
- Eggs: These bind everything together and add moisture—essential for that gooey center.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- Baking powder: Just a teaspoon helps give the cake some lift while keeping it dense and delightful.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make gooey butter cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish (a 9×13 inch works wonders) and grease it generously with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of flour along with one cup of granulated sugar and half a cup of melted butter. Add one egg and mix until smooth. Pour this luscious batter into your greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Create the Gooey Filling
In another bowl, beat together two eggs with eight ounces of cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add one cup of powdered sugar (watch out for flying sugar clouds!) followed by one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until creamy; you’ll want to dive right in!
Step 4: Layer It Up
Pour this heavenly filling over your prepared base in the baking dish. Do not stir; let those layers work their magic in the oven!
Step 5: Bake Away
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown but still look slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures maximum gooiness!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is—it’s fabulous either way!
Now you have all you need to create your very own gooey butter cake masterpiece! Transfer those delightful squares onto plates and watch as everyone gathers around for seconds—and maybe thirds! Enjoy every rich bite that transports you straight back to those cherished family gatherings where laughter mingled with sweetness!
You Must Know
- Gooey butter cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience!
- This rich, velvety delight combines the best of cake and gooeyness in one heavenly bite.
- Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo in your pajamas, it never disappoints.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate gooey butter cake, start by preheating your oven and greasing your pan. Mix the crust first, then blend the filling while the crust bakes to ensure perfect timing and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your gooey butter cake by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. You can also swap out vanilla for almond extract or try flavored cream cheese for a twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover gooey butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds to restore that delightful gooey texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter that mixes well.
- Watch your baking time closely; overbaking can ruin that signature gooeyness.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to avoid messiness.
Sometimes I whip up gooey butter cake when I need a pick-me-up, and my friends always rave about it. One slice often leads to requests for seconds—who can resist that creamy goodness?
FAQs:
What is gooey butter cake?
Gooey butter cake is a decadent dessert that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. It features a rich, buttery base that is topped with a creamy layer made from cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar. The combination creates a unique texture—part cake, part custard—that melts in your mouth. This delightful treat is often served at gatherings and special occasions due to its irresistible flavor and gooey consistency.
How do I store leftovers of gooey butter cake?
To store leftover gooey butter cake, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it for up to a week. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat slightly in the oven.
Can I customize my gooey butter cake recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional gooey butter cake is delicious as is, feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different flavors by adding vanilla extract, almond extract, or even chocolate chips. almond cream cake recipe For a fruity twist, consider incorporating fresh berries or citrus zest into the cream cheese layer. These variations can elevate the classic recipe while still maintaining that signature gooey texture.
What should I serve with gooey butter cake?
Gooey butter cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and balances the richness of the cake. Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries provides a refreshing contrast. For an extra treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the cold ice cream complements the warm gooeyness beautifully. Enjoying this dessert with coffee or tea can also enhance its flavors.
Conclusion for gooey butter cake:
Gooey butter cake remains a beloved dessert for good reason. Its unique texture and rich flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dessert promises satisfaction every time you take a bite. perfect dessert pairing Remember to store any leftovers properly for later enjoyment, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors or pairings that complement its deliciousness perfectly!
Gooey Butter Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Gooey butter cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of comfort food with its rich, buttery crust and creamy, gooey filling. Originating from St. Louis, this decadent treat combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, serve it warm with ice cream or simply enjoy it on its own for an indulgent experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and one egg until smooth. Pour into the greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat two eggs with cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; blend until creamy.
- Pour the filling over the base layer without stirring.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are golden brown and center is slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
