If you love desserts that are both indulgent and simple to prepare, then the gooey butter cake is a must-try recipe. This delightful treat combines a rich buttery flavor with a unique texture that is both creamy and dense. Originating from St. Louis, this cake has gained popularity across the country for its simplicity and incredible taste. What makes the ooey gooey butter cake truly special is its versatility; you can serve it at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or just as a sweet ending to any meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this incredible dessert in no time. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about making the perfect ooey gooey butter cake from scratch. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; it adds richness to the dessert.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness; consider using brown sugar for added depth.
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind the ingredients together while providing moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
- All-Purpose Flour: This provides structure; ensure it’s properly measured for best results.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent to give the cake its lightness.
- Powdered Sugar: Used in the topping mixture; it creates a creamy texture when combined with cream cheese.
- Cream Cheese: Bring it to room temperature for easier mixing; it adds creaminess and tanginess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
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How to Make Ooey 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). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 4: Spread the Base Mixture
Pour the base mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.
Step 5: Make the Topping Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract until well blended.
Step 6: Combine Layers
Pour the cream cheese topping over the base layer in your baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until set but still slightly gooey in center.
Transfer to plates and enjoy warm or cooled down for an even richer taste!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve a smoother batter.
- Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on your cake during baking; every oven varies slightly in temperature.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover gooey butter cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
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How to Serve Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
This Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich, buttery cake perfectly, creating a delightful contrast.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy berries add a fresh and tangy element that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the dessert’s indulgence while adding a light, airy touch.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- Storing: Leftover cake should be placed in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; it can last up to three months when properly wrapped.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through without drying out.
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Suggestions for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake:
Use the Right Ingredients
When making ooey gooey butter cake, using the right ingredients is crucial. Opt for high-quality butter, cream cheese, and eggs to ensure a rich flavor and creamy texture. Avoid substitutes that may alter the cake’s consistency or taste. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall quality of your dessert, so check expiration dates on your dairy products. If you can, use room temperature butter and cream cheese to make mixing easier. This allows for better incorporation of air into the batter, resulting in a fluffier cake. Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar; it adds sweetness without making the cake overly dense.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing your batter can lead to a tough texture in your ooey gooey butter cake. When combining ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. This helps maintain a soft and gooey center while keeping the edges slightly firmer. The key is to fold in the dry ingredients gently without beating too vigorously. Using a spatula instead of an electric mixer can help control this process better. Remember, a few lumps are okay! This technique ensures that your cake comes out perfectly gooey and delicious every time.
Pay Attention to Baking Time
Baking time is essential when preparing ooey gooey butter cake. Every oven varies slightly in temperature, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Start checking for doneness about 10 minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, it’s done. If you leave it in too long, you’ll lose that signature gooeyness that makes this dessert so special. Remember that carryover cooking will continue to firm up the edges even after you take it out of the oven.
Let It Cool Properly
Allowing your ooey gooey butter cake to cool properly is vital for optimal texture and flavor development. Once removed from the oven, let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Cooling allows the layers to set while maintaining their signature gooeyness without falling apart when served. If you cut into it too soon, you risk losing that delightful center and creating a messy slice. For best results, refrigerate leftovers; this will keep them fresh and enhance their flavors over time.
FAQs:
What is Ooey Gooey Butter Cake?
Ooey gooey butter cake is a rich dessert originating from St. Louis, Missouri. It features a buttery crust topped with a creamy layer made primarily of cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar. The baked cake has a unique texture: crisp on top but soft and custard-like underneath, giving it its name “ooey gooey.” This dessert often lends itself to various flavors by adding chocolate or fruit toppings but remains classic in its original form.
How do I store Ooey Gooey Butter Cake?
To store ooey gooey butter cake effectively, allow it to cool completely at room temperature first. Then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days or freeze individual pieces for longer storage—up to three months works well without losing flavor or texture! Just remember to wrap each piece tightly before freezing to keep them fresh.
Can I make modifications to my Ooey Gooey Butter Cake?
Yes! You can modify your ooey gooey butter cake according to personal preferences or dietary needs. Consider substituting gluten-free flour if you’re avoiding gluten or using vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives for a plant-based version. Adding flavors like lemon zest or chocolate chips can also enhance your creation while still retaining its deliciously gooey nature.
Why is my Ooey Gooey Butter Cake not gooey?
If your ooey gooey butter cake turns out less goo than expected, there could be several reasons behind this issue. First, check if you overbaked the cake; keeping an eye on bake times is essential for achieving that perfect balance between firm edges and soft centers. Additionally, ensure you’ve used enough eggs and cream cheese in your batter; these ingredients are vital for maintaining moisture and creating that characteristic texture.
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Conclusion for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake:
In summary, mastering ooey gooey butter cake requires attention to detail during preparation and baking processes. Use high-quality ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter, pay close attention to baking times, and allow proper cooling after baking for optimal results. With these tips in mind, you can create a deliciously rich dessert that boasts both flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a slice yourself, this classic treat will surely impress everyone who takes a bite!

Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is an indulgent dessert known for its rich buttery flavor and creamy, custard-like filling. Originating from St. Louis, this beloved treat has captured hearts across the nation with its straightforward preparation and irresistible taste. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a delightful cake suitable for any occasion—be it birthdays, holidays, or casual family gatherings. Each slice features a luscious cream cheese topping that adds an extra layer of decadence, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether enjoyed warm straight from the oven or chilled for later, this cake promises gooey goodness that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- For the base layer, mix softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy; then add eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually combine with the wet mixture until just blended.
- Pour the base into the prepared dish, smoothing the top.
- For the topping, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth; add eggs one by one along with vanilla until blended.
- Pour over the base layer and bake for 40-45 minutes or until set but still gooey in the center.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing.
Keep an eye on baking time as ovens vary; check doneness with a toothpick.
You can customize flavors by adding chocolate chips or fruit toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square piece (90g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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