Gooey Butter Cake

Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, sweet, and irresistibly decadent dessert that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. With a soft, buttery cake base and a luscious, gooey cream cheese topping, this treat is crispy on the edges, creamy in the center, and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you’re craving an indulgent classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery, soft, and ultra-gooey center
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for crowds, parties, or gifting
• A nostalgic, Midwest classic dessert
• Delicious warm, room temperature, or chilled

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the base:

• Yellow cake mix (store-bought or homemade dry mix)
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Eggs

For the gooey topping:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar
• Optional: pinch of salt or lemon juice for balance

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until combined into a thick dough. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth and fluffy.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes. The edges should be golden and set, while the center remains slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before slicing. The topping will firm up as it cools.
8. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12–16 bars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 45 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Version: Use chocolate cake mix and add cocoa powder to the topping.
• Pumpkin Gooey Cake: Add canned pumpkin and pumpkin spice to the cream cheese layer.
• Lemon Twist: Use lemon cake mix and add lemon zest or juice to the topping.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Spiced Base: Use spice cake mix for a fall-inspired flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
To freeze, wrap individual pieces and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

What is Gooey Butter Cake?

It’s a two-layer dessert with a dense cake base and a rich, gooey cream cheese topping—sweet, soft, and indulgent.

Is it supposed to be gooey in the middle?

Yes! The center should be soft and slightly underbaked when removed from the oven for that signature gooey texture.

Can I make it without cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute with a homemade dry cake mix using flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor, but low-fat can be used in a pinch.

Why did my topping sink or crack?

Some cracking is normal. Be sure not to overbake—pull it when the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better once it’s fully cooled and set. Make it a day in advance if needed.

Can I use other cake mix flavors?

Absolutely! Try white, lemon, spice, or chocolate cake mixes for different variations.

Is this the same as chess squares?

Very similar—chess squares and gooey butter cake share ingredients and textures, though regional names may vary.

How do I cut clean slices?

Chill the cake first, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat squares.

What do I serve it with?

It’s great on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.

Conclusion

Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, sweet slice of comfort with a creamy top and buttery base that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or sneaking a square for dessert, this St. Louis classic is a guaranteed hit. Simple to make and even easier to love, it’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe.

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