Cream Cheese Gooey Butter Cake
Description
Cream Cheese Gooey Butter Cake is a decadent dessert with two distinct layers:
- A soft, buttery cake base
- A rich, creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese topping
The top stays “gooey” and custard-like even after baking, which is exactly what makes this cake so special. It’s sweet, dense, and melts in your mouth—perfect for dessert tables or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F)
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan
Step 2: Make the Base
- In a bowl, mix cake mix, melted butter, and egg
- Stir until a thick dough forms
- Press evenly into the bottom of the pan
Step 3: Make the Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth
- Add eggs and vanilla, mix well
- Add melted butter and mix again
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy
Step 4: Assemble
- Pour cream cheese mixture over the base
- Spread evenly
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes
- Center should still be slightly gooey (do not overbake)
Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Let cool completely before slicing
- Dust with powdered sugar (optional)
Servings
- Makes 12–16 servings
Notes
- The center will look underbaked—that’s normal
- Texture firms up as it cools
- Best served at room temperature
Tips for Best Results
- Use full-fat cream cheese for richness
- Don’t overmix once sugar is added (prevents air bubbles)
- Line pan with parchment for easy removal
- Chill slightly before cutting for cleaner slices
- Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 420–480 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 5g
(Values vary based on portion size and ingredients used)
Benefits (Yes, even dessert has some!)
- Provides quick energy (carbs + fats)
- Cream cheese adds calcium
- Mood-boosting comfort food
- Great for celebrations and sharing
Q & A
Q1: Why is my cake too runny?
Because it’s underbaked. The center should be gooey, not liquid. Bake a few more minutes if needed.
Q2: Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! Chocolate, red velvet, or lemon work great.
Q3: How do I store it?
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days
- Bring to room temp before serving
Q4: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months
Q5: Why did my top crack?
That’s normal—it happens from sugar expansion during baking.
Q6: Can I make it from scratch without cake mix?
Yes, but cake mix gives the classic texture. Scratch versions require more precision.
Variations to Try
- Add chocolate chips
- Swirl in caramel or Nutella
- Top with fresh berries
- Add lemon zest for brightness