Unveiling the Best Gooey Butter Cake Recipes – From St. Louis to Your Kitchen

Indulge in the decadent world of gooey butter cake recipes with this super easy version that will tantalize your taste buds. This delightful treat boasts a crumbly cake base topped with a gooey cream cheese layer that’s simply irresistible. If you’ve never experienced the joy of gooey butter cake, imagine a dense, soft shortbread-like base complemented by a lusciously baked frosting – a true textural delight.

Originating from St. Louis, Missouri, this rich dessert has captured the hearts of many with its gooey goodness. Despite its humble appearance, gooey butter cake is a true gem in the world of desserts. Whether you’re a fan of classic recipes or looking to explore new sweet delights, this gooey butter cake is a must-try. Stay tuned for the easy steps and tips to create this delectable treat in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Creating a gooey butter cake is simple when you have the right ingredients. From the base cake to the gooey topping, each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Cake Base

• 1 package yellow cake mix
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (113g) melted butter

• 3/4 cup salted butter (softened, 12 Tablespoons)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (141g)
• Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)

Equipment Needed

When preparing this irresistible gooey butter cake, it’s essential to have the right equipment on hand to ensure a smooth baking process. Here are the tools and utensils you will need:

• Electric mixer: An electric mixer, either handheld or a stand mixer, is crucial for beating the butter, sugar, and other ingredients to the perfect consistency.
• Mixing bowls: Have a few mixing bowls ready for combining different ingredients and preparing the cake batter.
• Baking dish: You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish for spreading the cake batter and allowing it to rise before baking.
• Paddle attachment: If using a stand mixer, make sure you have the paddle attachment for mixing the dough smoothly.
• Plastic wrap: Covering the cake batter with plastic wrap while it rises is essential to create the perfect texture.
• Microwave-safe bowl: To proof the yeast, you’ll need a small microwave-safe bowl for warming the milk and water.

Having these essential tools and utensils at your disposal will make the gooey butter cake baking process a breeze. Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to dive into creating this decadent dessert.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Cake Base

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together 3/4 cup of softened salted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy.
2. Add 1 large egg and continue mixing until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Mix in 3 tablespoons of corn syrup, 2 tablespoons of water, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
4. Slowly incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients to form the cake base mixture.

1. In a separate bowl, combine 1 8-ounce package of cream cheese, 2 eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract using an electric mixer until creamy.
2. Gradually add 4 cups of confectioners sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Pour the gooey topping mixture over the prepared cake base in the baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
4. Bake the gooey butter cake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown.
5. Allow the cake to cool before serving, and for an extra touch, dust the top with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Baking Instructions

Assembling the Cake

1. Prepare the bottom layer mixture by beating butter and sugar in an electric mixer until smooth. Add the egg and salt, mixing thoroughly.
2. Proof the yeast by combining warm milk and water, then adding the yeast to let it foam for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Create the batter by mixing flour into the milkyeast mixture until a sticky dough forms.
4. Spread the dough into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish, allowing it to rise for 2-3 hours until doubled in size.
5. Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy in a large mixing bowl.
6. Incorporate the wet ingredients, such as the egg, corn syrup, water, and vanilla extract, ensuring they are well mixed.
7. Add the flour gradually and mix to form the cake batter.
8. Gently spread the top layer mixture over the bottom layer in the baking dish.

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) before baking the assembled cake.
2. Bake the cake for 35 to 45 minutes until the edges are browned and the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting it into squares for serving.

Cooling and Serving

After baking your gooey butter cake to golden perfection, it’s vital to allow it to cool properly before serving. Once the cake has cooled, it’s time to indulge in this delightful treat.

Cooling Period

1. Cooling Time: Let the baked gooey butter cake cool at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. This allows the layers to set and ensures easier slicing.
2. Refrigeration: For a firmer texture and easier cutting, you can refrigerate the cake for an additional 1-2 hours before serving. Ensure it is covered to prevent drying out.

1. Dusting: Before serving, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a visually appealing finish.
2. Slice Size: Cut the gooey butter cake into generous squares or rectangles for serving. Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.
3. Warmth: For an extra indulgent experience, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds before serving. This enhances the gooey texture of the cream cheese layer.

Storage Guidelines

To keep your gooey butter cake fresh and delicious for longer, proper storage is essential. Here are some guidelines to ensure your gooey butter cake maintains its gooey goodness:

1. Room Temperature:

• If you plan to consume the cake within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature. Make sure to cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

1. Refrigeration:

• For extended storage beyond a couple of days, refrigeration is the key. Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container before refrigerating. Properly stored, your gooey butter cake can last up to 4-5 days in the fridge.

1. Freezing:

• To store your gooey butter cake for an even longer duration, freezing is a great option. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Write the date on the package for easy reference. Frozen gooey butter cake can last up to 2-3 months.

1. Thawing:

• When ready to enjoy your frozen cake, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the cake’s texture and flavor. Once thawed, you can bring the cake to room temperature before serving or reheat individual slices in the microwave for a gooey and indulgent treat.

By following these storage guidelines, you can savor your gooey butter cake over an extended period without compromising its taste and texture. Properly stored, your delicious dessert will be ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Conclusion

Gooey butter cake recipes offer a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for days to come with proper storage techniques. By following the guidelines for room temperature storage, refrigeration, freezing, and thawing, you can savor the deliciousness of this St. Louis classic without any compromise. Remember to cool and serve your gooey butter cake with care to maintain its irresistible texture. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to bring joy to your taste buds. Try out different variations and make this gooey delight a staple in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!