What is Gooey Butter Cake?
Gooey butter cake is a beloved dessert known for its rich, buttery flavor and unique texture, combining gooey and chewy layers. This cake originated in St. Louis, Missouri, and features a dense cake base topped with a soft, gooey layer made from cream cheese and powdered sugar. Its delightful texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite treat for many.
In the 1930s, a baker in St. Louis accidentally added too much butter to a coffee cake recipe, creating this delicious dessert. Since then, gooey butter cake has become a popular staple in homes and bakeries across the United States.
Ingredients and Tools Needed
Essential Ingredients
To create a classic gooey butter cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- Cake Mix: A 15.25-ounce box of yellow or butter cake mix serves as the base of the cake, providing a tender and flavorful foundation.
- Butter: Use 1/2 cup of softened butter.This ingredient enhances the cake’s richness and keeps it moist.
- Eggs: Four large eggs are required. They help bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
- Cream Cheese: One 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese is essential for the gooey topping, giving it a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Four cups of powdered sugar add sweetness to the topping and create the cake’s signature gooey texture.
Optional Add-Ins
While the traditional recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize your gooey butter cake with various add-ins:
- Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the topping for a chocolatey twist.
- Berries: Fresh or frozen berries can be mixed into the topping to add a fruity flavor.
- Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Necessary Tools
To make a gooey butter cake, you will need the following tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Several mixing bowls for combining the different layers of the cake.
- Electric Mixer: An electric mixer helps ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth.
- Baking Pan: A 9×13-inch baking pan is the ideal size for this recipe, providing enough space for the cake to rise and bake evenly.
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create a delicious gooey butter cake that will impress your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preparing the Crust Layer
Start by gathering your ingredients for the crust layer: cake mix, butter, and eggs.
- Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine a 15.25-ounce box of yellow or butter cake mix with 1/2 cup of softened butter and two large eggs. Use an electric mixer on low speed to blend these ingredients until they form a smooth, thick batter. This mixture will serve as the base layer of your gooey butter cake.
- Pressing the Mixture into the Pan: Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Press the prepared batter evenly into the bottom of the pan. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure the layer is smooth and covers the entire bottom of the pan. The crust layer should be dense and firm, providing a solid foundation for the gooey topping.
Making the Topping Layer
Next, prepare the gooey topping that gives this cake its distinctive texture and flavor.
- Combining Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, add one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to beat it until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy
- Then, add the remaining two large eggs and continue to mix until well combined. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing slowly to avoid a sugar cloud. Continue beating until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Pouring Over the Crust Layer: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust layer in the baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring it covers the entire crust. This layer should be thick and creamy, setting the stage for the gooey texture once baked.
Baking Instructions
Proper baking ensures the right texture and flavor for your gooey butter cake.
- Temperature and Time Settings: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the baking pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes; the top should turn golden brown while the center remains slightly gooey.
- Checking for Doneness: To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out mostly clean, but the center should still feel a bit soft and gooey. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause the cake to lose its signature gooey texture.
Cooling and Serving Tips
Cooling and serving the cake properly enhances its flavor and presentation.
- Proper Cooling Techniques: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before cutting to help the layers set properly. This will also make cutting and serving easier.
- How to Cut and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into squares or bars. For a clean cut, you can dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts. Serve the gooey butter cake at room temperature or chilled. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.
Following these steps will ensure your cake mix gooey butter cake turns out perfect every time. Enjoy this rich, delicious treat with family and friends!
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