Get ready to embark on a journey to dessert heaven with a recipe that’s been passed down through generations – Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake. This indulgent treat combines the simplicity of a cake mix with the rich decadence of cream cheese and butter, resulting in a gooey, irresistible confection that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake together!
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 cups or 1 box powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Melt Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the stick of butter in the microwave until fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and yellow cake mix until well combined. The mixture will be thick.
- Add Cream Cheese: Add the room temperature cream cheese to the cake batter mixture, beating until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Butter: Pour in the melted butter and continue to mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly gooey.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, sift powdered sugar over the top of the cake for a sweet finishing touch.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve either warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the gooey goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Flavor Options: Experiment with different flavors of cake mix for a unique twist. Chocolate, lemon, or even red velvet cake mix can all work well in this recipe.
- Add-Ins: For extra texture and flavor, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for an added touch of sweetness.
Keto and Low Carb Versions
For those looking for a keto or low-carb version of Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake, here are some modifications you can make:
- Almond Flour: Replace the yellow cake mix with almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a lower carb option.
- Sweeteners: Use keto-friendly sweeteners such as powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of powdered sugar.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese to keep the cake rich and creamy without added sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese in this recipe? A: While you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the cake. Full-fat cream cheese will yield the best results for that classic gooey texture.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q: Can I freeze leftover cake? A: Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for this recipe? A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix to customize the cake to your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may vary depending on the flavor you choose.
Q: Can I make this cake without a boxed cake mix? A: Yes, you can make a homemade version of this cake by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract with the eggs and cream cheese. However, using a boxed cake mix simplifies the process and ensures consistent results.
In conclusion, Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake is a timeless classic that never fails to delight with its rich, gooey texture and irresistible sweetness. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dessert on a cozy evening at home or shared with loved ones at a special occasion, this cake is sure to evoke fond memories and create new ones with every delicious bite. So, why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to the indulgent bliss of Mom’s Gooey Butter Cake today!
