Gooey butter cake is a St. Louis classic with a dense, buttery base and a creamy, sweet topping. This gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix uses simple pantry ingredients for an authentic homemade taste. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a special treat at home.
Skipping the cake mix gives you control over the flavor and texture. This recipe is straightforward, delivering a rich, indulgent dessert with minimal effort. You’ll need an oven and a few basic tools to create this crowd-pleaser.
From mixing the dough to baking the gooey topping, we’ll guide you through every step. You’ll learn how to make a gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this deliciously rich dessert.
Why Choose Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix?
Making gooey butter cake from scratch ensures a fresher, more authentic flavor. You avoid preservatives and artificial ingredients found in cake mixes. The result is a homemade dessert with a personal touch.
This recipe is simple, using everyday ingredients like flour and butter. It’s versatile, allowing for flavor variations like vanilla or chocolate. Baking it yourself is both rewarding and cost-effective.
The oven creates a perfect balance of a firm base and gooey topping. This gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix delivers consistent, bakery-quality results. It’s a nostalgic treat everyone will love.
What You Need for Gooey Butter Cake
For the base, gather 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup milk. For the topping, you’ll need 8 oz cream cheese, 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 eggs, ¼ cup butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe. You’ll need a mixing bowl, electric mixer or whisk, and a spatula. Parchment paper and a cooling rack help with easy removal and cooling.
Optional toppings include powdered sugar or fresh berries. A measuring cup and spoons ensure accuracy. Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth process.
Factors Affecting Baking Success
Oven temperature accuracy impacts the cake’s texture. An oven thermometer ensures a steady 350°F (175°C). Convection ovens may bake slightly faster than conventional ones.
The cream cheese’s temperature affects the topping’s smoothness. Softened cream cheese blends better, avoiding lumps. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
The batter’s consistency is key for the base. It should be dough-like but spreadable. Adjust with a tablespoon of milk if too dry for this gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix.
Gooey Butter Cake Recipe Without Cake Mix
To make this gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes until golden and set. The base takes 10 minutes to prepare, the topping 5 minutes, and cooling about an hour. Follow these steps for a rich, gooey dessert.
Preparing the Base
In a bowl, cream ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 egg and ¼ cup milk, mixing until combined. Sift together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Use a spatula or your hands to create a smooth, even layer.
Ensure the dough covers the pan’s bottom completely. If it’s too sticky, lightly flour your hands. This creates a sturdy base for the gooey topping.
Making the Gooey Topping
In another bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 2 eggs, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gradually mix in 2 cups powdered sugar until creamy.
Spread the topping evenly over the prepared base. Smooth with a spatula for a uniform layer. Tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles.
The topping should be thick but pourable. If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk. This ensures the signature gooey texture when baked.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Place the pan on the middle rack for even baking. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is slightly set but still soft.
Check at 35 minutes; the topping should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil. Let the cake cool in the pan for 30 minutes.
Transfer to a cooling rack or leave in the pan to cool completely. This sets the gooey texture. Slice into squares for easy serving.
Tips for Perfect Gooey Butter Cake
Use room-temperature cream cheese and butter for a smooth topping. Press the base firmly to prevent crumbling. Follow this gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix for consistent results.
Check the cake at the minimum baking time to avoid overcooking. The center should remain slightly gooey. Let it cool fully before slicing for clean cuts.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a classic look. Store properly to maintain the cake’s moisture. Practice improves texture and presentation over time.
Topping Variations and Prep Times
Toppings add flair to your gooey butter cake. Below is a table with options to enhance this gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix.
| Topping Type | Preparation | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered Sugar | Sift and dust | 2 minutes |
| Fresh Berries | Wash and place | 5 minutes |
| Chocolate Drizzle | Melt and drizzle | 5 minutes |
Add toppings after cooling for the best presentation. Prep times are quick, keeping the recipe simple. Choose toppings that complement the cake’s rich flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking can dry out the gooey topping. Check at 35 minutes for a slightly jiggly center. Cover with foil if the edges brown too quickly.
Using cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy topping. Let it soften at room temperature for 30 minutes. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Overmixing the base dough can make it tough. Mix just until combined for a tender base. Follow the gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix carefully.
Adjusting for Different Pan Sizes
A 9×13-inch pan is standard for this recipe. An 8×8-inch pan creates a thicker cake, needing 40-45 minutes to bake. A 10×15-inch pan bakes faster, around 30-35 minutes.
For smaller pans, reduce the batter slightly or expect a denser cake. Check for doneness earlier with larger pans. Adjust topping amounts to cover the surface evenly.
Grease the pan well or line with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean slices. The recipe adapts to various pan sizes with minor tweaks.
Benefits of Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix
This recipe uses simple ingredients, making it budget-friendly. You avoid the cost of pre-made mixes while achieving a fresher taste. It’s a homemade dessert that impresses guests.
The cake’s rich, gooey texture is perfect for special occasions or casual treats. It pairs well with coffee, tea, or fruit. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Baking from scratch lets you control ingredients, avoiding additives. This gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix delivers consistent, indulgent results. It’s a nostalgic treat for any gathering.
Creative Variations and Serving Ideas
Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the topping for a chocolate version. Swirl in some raspberry jam for a fruity twist. These enhance the cake’s rich flavor.
Top with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a colorful contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra decadence. Keep toppings light to maintain the gooey texture.
Serve in small squares for easy sharing at parties. Pair with vanilla ice cream or coffee for a cozy dessert. These ideas make your cake a standout treat.
- Chocolate Twist: Add cocoa powder to the topping for richness.
- Berry Topping: Place fresh berries for a tart balance.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Storing and Reheating Your Cake
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freeze the cake, wrapped in plastic and foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Add toppings after thawing for best presentation.
Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving can make it soggy, so avoid it. Serve at room temperature for optimal texture.
Summary
This gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix takes 35-40 minutes to bake at 350°F, creating a rich, creamy dessert with a buttery base. Prepare a simple dough base, add a gooey cream cheese topping, and bake until golden. Use room-temperature ingredients and check for a slightly jiggly center. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade gooey butter cake.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives a richer, creamier topping. Low-fat may result in a softer texture. Stick to the gooey butter cake recipe without cake mix for best results.
What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
Use an 8×8-inch pan for a thicker cake, baking for 40-45 minutes. A 10×15-inch pan bakes faster, around 30-35 minutes. Adjust topping amounts accordingly.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for longer storage, up to 5 days. Add toppings just before serving for freshness.
How do I prevent the topping from cracking?
Avoid overbaking; the center should be slightly jiggly when done. Cool gradually in the pan to set the texture. Check at 35 minutes to ensure doneness.
Can I freeze gooey butter cake?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Add toppings after thawing for best results.