The Best Homemade Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This gooey butter cake is a dream come true for anyone who loves rich, indulgent desserts. You’ll adore how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Perfectly gooey center that melts in your mouth, paired with a buttery crust for the ideal texture.
- Quick to prepare—just mix, bake, and enjoy without any fuss or complicated steps.
- Versatile flavor that you can customize with add-ins like chocolate chips or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Recipe

Homemade Gooey Butter Cake is a beloved dessert known for its rich, gooey texture and buttery flavor. This recipe combines a tender cake base with a decadent topping for a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 2 eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Do not overbake the cake to guarantee it remains gooey in the center. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Equipment
Mixing bowls, hand mixer or stand mixer, 9×13 inch baking dish, spatula
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 12
Nutrition
While indulging in this delicious Gooey Butter Cake, it is helpful to be mindful of its nutritional content. Below is the detailed breakdown per serving.
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sugar (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 15 | 42 | 4 | 30 | 200 |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my gooey butter cake with fresh fruit like berries or sliced peaches—it adds a bright, juicy contrast to the rich cake. A dollop of whipped cream on top makes it even more indulgent, and it’s so easy to whip up yourself. These simple pairings take the cake from delicious to downright irresistible!
Fresh Fruit Pairings
Though gooey butter cake is delicious on its own, it’s even better when paired with fresh fruit to balance its rich sweetness. I love adding berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries – their tartness cuts through the cake’s decadence perfectly. Sliced bananas or peaches add a creamy, juicy touch, while kiwi or pineapple bring a tropical twist. Sometimes, I arrange fruit on the side or scatter it on top for a colorful, revitalizing contrast. It’s not just about flavor; the fruit makes each bite feel lighter and more satisfying. Experiment with what’s in season, and you’ll find endless ways to elevate this treat!
Whipped Cream Toppings
There’s nothing quite like a dollop of whipped cream to take your gooey butter cake from delicious to irresistible, and I’ve found that a little extra flair makes all the difference. I love adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel to mine, but vanilla bean or cocoa powder works just as well. For a lighter touch, fold in a bit of lemon zest or almond extract. If you’re feeling fancy, pipe it into swirls for a pretty finish. Trust me, it’s the little things that turn a simple slice into something truly special.