gooey butter cake

Name: Gooey Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup powdered sugar (for topping)

Published: January 12, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This gooey butter cake

This incredible gooey butter cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious gooey butter cake:

Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the dish; it also adds richness.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness and helps create that magical gooey texture.
Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together while adding flavor; they are key to achieving that custardy center.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances overall flavor; don’t skimp here!
All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works perfectly to give structure without weighing down our dreamy creation.
Baking Powder: Just a teaspoon ensures our cake rises beautifully while keeping the inside delightfully gooey.
Powdered Sugar: This sweet dusting on top not only looks beautiful but adds an extra layer of sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious gooey butter cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your favorite baking dish (9×13-inch works best) and coat it with nonstick cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix the Crust

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix well until creamy. Add in one egg at a time until fully combined before stirring in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in all-purpose flour and baking powder until just blended—no need to overmix! Spread this mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish to form the crust.

Step 4: Create the Gooey Filling

In another bowl, whisk together eggs and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract until smooth before gently pouring over the crust in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake

Slide your masterpiece into the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. It should be golden brown around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the middle—this is where all that glorious gooeyness comes from!

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Allow your gooey butter cake to cool completely before cutting into squares. Dust with more powdered sugar if desired and serve warm or at room temperature for ultimate enjoyment.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy each bite as it melts away like memories of grandma’s kitchen filled with laughter and love—you might just end up fighting over who gets that last piece!

This showstopping gooey butter cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Next, mix the crust ingredients until well combined, followed by blending the filling ingredients separately. Pour the filling over the crust and bake until golden. This sequence ensures efficient cooking and perfect gooeyness.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist or add chocolate chips for an extra indulgence. You could also sprinkle in some citrus zest to brighten up the flavor profile of your gooey butter cake.

Storing & Reheating

Store your leftover gooey butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it wrapped tightly. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips for gooey butter cake

This professional-quality gooey butter cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I served this gooey butter cake at a family gathering; my grandma declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which made my day!

FAQs

What is gooey butter cake?

Gooey butter cake is a rich dessert that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. This indulgent treat features a buttery, creamy filling atop a dense cake base. It’s made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, creating a delightful balance of textures. The top layer is often dusted with powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to this already decadent dish. Gooey butter cake has become a beloved favorite among dessert lovers for its unique combination of flavors and its gooey consistency.

How long does gooey butter cake last?

When stored properly, gooey butter cake can last up to one week in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. To serve after freezing, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and enjoy its deliciously gooey texture once again.

Can I use different flavors for gooey butter cake?

Absolutely! While traditional gooey butter cake uses vanilla flavoring, you can experiment with various flavors like chocolate, lemon, or even pumpkin for seasonal variations. Simply replace the vanilla extract with your preferred flavoring and adjust the sugar accordingly if needed. These variations add an exciting twist to the classic recipe while still maintaining that signature gooey texture that everyone loves.

Is gooey butter cake easy to make?

Yes! Gooey butter cake is quite simple to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this delicious dessert in no time. The key is ensuring you mix the filling thoroughly and bake it until perfectly set but still gooey. Follow a reliable recipe, and you’ll impress friends and family with this delightful treat!

Conclusion

In summary, gooey butter cake is an irresistible dessert known for its rich flavor and unique texture. By understanding what it is and how to customize it with different flavors, you can truly make this dish your own. Remember that storing it properly will help maintain its delicious taste for longer periods. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you crave something sweet, gooey butter cake promises satisfaction every time!

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📖 Recipe Card