Making this Easy Gooey Butter Cake has been a delightful experience for me! The moment you cut into it, you’re greeted with a rich, creamy texture that almost melts in your mouth. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. What makes it truly special is its unique combination of buttery batter with a luscious cream cheese topping that transforms it into a gooey delight.
Reasons to try it
You’re going to love this dish not just for its unbelievable taste but also for how incredibly easy it is to make. With ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, this cake is both budget-friendly and time-saving. It’s an ideal treat for a weeknight dessert, the perfect finish to a family brunch, or even a sweet surprise for unexpected guests. And trust me, every bite brings comfort and nostalgia, making it a timeless classic.
“This Easy Gooey Butter Cake is a game-changer! It’s creamy, sweet, and satisfies all my dessert cravings. I made it for a potluck, and it was gone in seconds!” – A happy home baker
The cooking process explained
Making Easy Gooey Butter Cake involves just a few simple steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers. You’ll start with mixing your wet ingredients, prep your dry ingredients separately, and then combine everything to bake. The result? A beautifully layered cake with a golden edge and a creamy center that’s sure to impress!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to get started on your delectable creation:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use light cream cheese for a lower-fat option or swap in gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to cater to dietary needs.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Pour this mixture over the batter in the pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center feels set.
- Allow it to cool a bit and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Easy Gooey Butter Cake, there are plenty of delicious options. It’s fantastic on its own, but you could also serve it with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top, or even add a drizzle of caramel sauce for that extra flair.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Easy Gooey Butter Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have a larger portion or wish to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. For longer storage, consider wrapping slices in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer for up to three months. Just ensure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; just blend until the ingredients are combined.
- For an extra moist texture, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up a bit? You could add your favorite flavor extracts such as almond or lemon for a different taste profile. Consider folding in some chocolate chips or crushed nuts into the batter before baking for added texture. For a seasonal approach, incorporate pumpkin puree and spices in the fall or fruity flavors during the summer.
Common questions
How long does it take to prep?
Preparation typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes, with baking time around 40-45 minutes afterward.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or even a vegan cream cheese to maintain that delicious creaminess.
Is it safe to store leftovers at room temperature?
Yes, leftovers can be stored at room temperature for a few days, but be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. For longer storage, opt for refrigeration or freezing.
PrintEasy Gooey Butter Cake
A rich, creamy butter cake with a luscious cream cheese topping, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Pour this mixture over the batter in the pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center feels set.
- Allow it to cool a bit and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Serve with fresh berries, ice cream, or whipped cream for extra indulgence. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
