Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix: Ultimate Comfort Food

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

Gooey Butter Cake is like a warm hug on a plate, draped in sweet nostalgia. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors, this dessert beckons like an old friend, promising comfort and joy.

Remember the first time you tasted something so good it made your eyes roll back in delight? That’s exactly how I felt when I first encountered the Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix. It’s the kind of treat that brightens any occasion, whether it’s a rainy day or a festive celebration.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This gooey butter cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for all skill levels
  • The buttery flavor combined with a hint of vanilla creates an irresistible taste sensation
  • It looks absolutely stunning with its golden crust and gooey center, delighting everyone at the table
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at any gathering or even as a cozy weeknight dessert

I once made this cake for my friend’s birthday party, and the way her eyes lit up was priceless. Everyone kept asking for seconds—and thirds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; it enhances richness without overwhelming flavors.

  • Sugar: Granulated sugar gives sweetness and helps create that delightful gooey texture we crave.

  • Eggs: Fresh eggs add moisture and structure; use large eggs for best results.

  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavor; avoid imitation for more depth.

  • Flour: All-purpose flour provides stability; measure accurately for optimal results.

  • Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that helps achieve that airy lift.

  • Powdered Sugar: Dust on top after baking for a sweet finishing touch—like a powdered sugar snowstorm!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Tools: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter. This will prevent any sticky situations later!

Create the Base Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes and fills your kitchen with heavenly aromas.

Add in the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined—the scent will be intoxicating!

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just blended—do not overmix! We want those gooey textures to shine through.

Spread It Out!: Pour half of this divine batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out into an even layer. The anticipation is building—can you smell it yet?

The Gooey Topping Magic!: Pour the remaining batter over the first layer but do not mix! Just let it sit on top like a cozy blanket. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top.

Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar—your masterpiece is almost ready! Enjoy each gooey bite as if you’ve discovered hidden treasure.

And there you have it: the Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix! It’s easy enough for anyone to whip up but impressive enough to wow guests at any gathering. So grab your fork and dig in—your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know

  • This recipe for Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix is a game-changer
  • It combines creamy, buttery flavors with a delightful texture that melts in your mouth
  • Perfect for gatherings, this cake is sure to impress without the hassle of complicated ingredients or processes

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix and bake the crust first while preparing the gooey topping to maximize efficiency and flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with flavors; add vanilla or almond extract for an aromatic twist. You can also sprinkle chocolate chips or nuts on top for extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore its gooey goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smooth batter
  • Don’t overmix; this ensures a nice rise and texture
  • Make sure your pan is well-greased to prevent sticking after baking

I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends devoured it without even waiting for it to cool! Their ecstatic reactions were priceless and showed how irresistible this dessert really is.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make this gooey butter cake ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance for even better flavors as they meld together.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

Substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different yet delicious outcome.

How can I tell when the cake is done baking?

The edges should be set while the center remains slightly wobbly but firm when tapped lightly.

Print

Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix

Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a rich, buttery flavor with a wonderfully gooey texture. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a cozy night in. With its golden crust and deliciously decadent center, this cake will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just blended.
  5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth it out evenly.
  6. Pour the remaining batter over the first layer without mixing. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top.
  7. Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize your cake by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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