Here is a simple guide to make a sweet, soft, gooey cake you can bake at home.
introduction
This Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, soft cake with a gooey center. It is easy to make and uses few ingredients. Kids and adults like its sweet, creamy taste. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. Try a different cake recipe for another treat like this one: butterscotch cake with caramel frosting.
why make this recipe
- It uses a boxed cake mix for fast prep.
- The filling is creamy and very gooey, so it feels special.
- You can make it for parties, potlucks, or a simple family dessert.
- It needs common ingredients most people have at home.
how to make Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Ingredients :
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined.
- Press the cake mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, 3 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer in the pan.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set but the middle is still slightly gooey.
- Allow to cool, then sprinkle with additional powdered sugar before serving.
how to serve Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Cut the cake into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a spoon of whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also goes well on top.
how to store Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the gooey texture.
tips to make Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake. The center should stay a bit soft for the gooey bite.
- Press the bottom layer evenly so the filling spreads well.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture.
- For other gooey treats and ideas, you can check this cookie recipe for inspiration: chewy gooey sourdough chocolate chip cookies.
variation (if any)
- Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice and lemon zest to the filling for a lemon version.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the top layer before baking.
- Use a different cake mix flavor like yellow or butter to change the base taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the cake may not be as rich or gooey. Full-fat gives the best texture.
Q: Do I need to chill the cake before slicing?
A: No. You can slice it after it cools to room temperature. Chilling will make it firmer.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes. Wrap slices well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q: Can I make this in a smaller pan?
A: You can use an 8×8 pan. The bake time may change, so watch the center.
Q: Can I add cocoa powder to make it chocolate?
A: You can mix 1/4 to 1/2 cup cocoa into the cake mix for a chocolate base.
Conclusion
Want another classic take on gooey butter cake? Try this tried recipe: Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. For the original Southern version, see the Original Gooey Butter Cake Recipe | Paula Deen.

Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined.
- Press the cake mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, 3 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer in the pan.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set but the middle is still slightly gooey.
- Allow to cool, then sprinkle with additional powdered sugar before serving.
- Cut the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.