Prepare to embark on a decadent culinary journey that will transform your dessert game forever! Paul Dean's Gooey Butter Cake isn't just a recipe—it's a slice of Southern comfort that promises to be so irresistibly rich and creamy, you'll want to hide the entire pan from your family. This legendary dessert combines the perfect balance of a buttery cake mix crust and a luxuriously smooth cream cheese filling that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 eggs
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined and the batter is smooth.
- Pour the cake mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom to form a crust layer.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. You can use an electric mixer for best results.
- Add the remaining 3 eggs to the cream cheese mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Be careful to avoid a sugar cloud!
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust layer in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly gooey.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
- After cooling, dust the top with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Gooey Butter Cake!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the crust ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent a tough texture.
- Check for Gooeyness: The cake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven—this ensures that signature gooey consistency.
- Powdered Sugar Hack: Use a fine mesh sieve for an even, elegant dusting of powdered sugar on top.
- Storage Tip: This cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it's best enjoyed within the first two days for maximum freshness.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
