Growing up, ooey gooey butter cake was a staple in many American households, a timeless treat cherished by generations. This classic dessert has been a favorite since the 1950s, passed down from moms and grandmas who knew the secret to its irresistible appeal. The magic lies in its simple yet surprising ingredients that come together to create a decadent delight.
Inspired by the original St. Louis ooey gooey cake, my take on this beloved recipe adds a twist of convenience by using a cake mix for the base layer. The result is a perfect marriage of a firm, golden cake bottom with a luscious cream cheese and butter top layer that melts in your mouth. Served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, this ooey gooey butter cake is a sweet symphony that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Creating a delicious ooey gooey butter cake requires a few simple ingredients that come together to form a delightful treat. Below, you’ll find the list of ingredients needed to make the crust and the decadent filling for this scrumptious dessert.
Crust Ingredients
- 1 package yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (113g) butter, melted
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
- 9 x 13 baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Crust
I like to kick off this ooey gooey butter cake recipe by preparing the crust. Using a stand mixer, I pour in one yellow cake mix and add two eggs, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and half a cup of melted butter. Mixing until everything is well combined.
Preparing the Filling
Next, it’s time to prepare the luscious filling for the ooey gooey butter cake. In a bowl, I combine room temperature cream cheese, two more eggs, and two and a half cups of powdered sugar. I beat this mixture with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
These steps ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures for the ultimate ooey gooey butter cake experience.
Baking Instructions
Assembling the Layers
To create the irresistible ooey gooey butter cake, start by mixing a yellow cake mix with eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter to form the delicious crust layer. Next, combine softened cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar until smooth to make the decadent top layer. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the prepared baking dish for a perfect balance of flavors.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) before baking the ooey gooey butter cake. Place the assembled cake in the oven and bake for approximately 25 to 35 minutes until the sides of the cake pull away from the dish and turn a golden brown color. Allow the cake to cool completely before sprinkling more confectioners’ sugar over the top for a finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Indulge in the delightful ooey gooey butter cake with these perfect serving suggestions. Enhance your dessert experience with ideal pairings and presentation tips.
Ideal Pairings
- Berries: Fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice complements the gooey texture and adds a light, airy finish.
- Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the warm cake for a delightful mix of temperatures and flavors.
- Coffee: Pair your gooey butter cake with a hot cup of coffee or a rich espresso for a cozy dessert experience.
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Before serving, lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Garnish with Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint to each plate for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Slice and Serve Warm: For the ultimate ooey-gooey experience, serve the cake warm and watch the creamy filling ooze out enticingly.
- Use Decorative Plates: Present your slices on decorative plates or dessert dishes to elevate the visual appeal of your dessert spread.
Storage and Care
After indulging in the delightful ooey gooey butter cake, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavors. Follow these simple instructions to preserve your gooey butter cake for longer enjoyment.
Refrigeration Instructions
To keep your ooey gooey butter cake fresh, store it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the cake for up to 5-7 days. Ensure that it is properly sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Freezing and Reheating Tips
If you want to enjoy your ooey gooey butter cake at a later time, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container before freezing. The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm and gooey experience, reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or place the whole cake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to sprinkle some extra powdered sugar before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – ooey gooey butter cake recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. From the classic St. Louis version to a modern twist using cake mix, these recipes offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Whether you prefer a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream on top, the indulgence is guaranteed. With easy-to-follow instructions for baking, serving, storing, and reheating, you can enjoy this decadent dessert anytime. So, why wait? Whip up a batch of ooey gooey butter cake and treat yourself to a slice of heaven.