Go Back
Homemade Gooey Butter Cake Recipe (from Scratch) photo

Gooey Butter Cake Recipe (from Scratch)

This Gooey Butter Cake is a must-try! A rich, buttery dessert that melts in your mouth, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted; one stick
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt or table salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar plus more for dusting

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Spatula
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, 1 egg yolk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon almond extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, evenly spreading it out.
  5. In another mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter until smooth. Add in the 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and the powdered sugar. Mix until well combined and creamy.
  6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top of the cake batter in the baking pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly gooey.
  7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light.
  • Watch baking time closely for the perfect gooey center!