Best Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Gooey butter cake is a beloved St. Louis original—an irresistible treat made with a rich, chewy cake base and a crackly, creamy “gooey” top that’s sweet, tangy, and utterly decadent.

Despite its humble appearance, this two-layered bar dessert delivers a mouthwatering contrast of textures in every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party dessert or simply want to indulge in a Midwestern classic, this easy gooey butter cake recipe will become your new favorite.

Ingredients Checklist

This recipe creates the classic from-scratch version, with both traditional and shortcut (cake mix) options:

For the Cake Base (Shortbread Layer)

• 1½ cups (188g) all-purpose flour

• ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Shortcut Option:

• 1 box (15–16oz) yellow cake mix

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Gooey Layer

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 3¾ cups (450g) powdered sugar, sifted

• Pinch of salt

Optional for Serving

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer or hand mixer

• Mixing bowls (at least two)

• 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan

• Parchment paper

• Spatula and whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Knife or offset spatula for spreading

• Fine sieve for dusting with sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the sides.

2. Make the Cake Base

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Stir until a thick dough forms. (If using cake mix, combine the mix, melted butter, and egg.)
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using your fingers or a spatula.

3. Make the Gooey Layer

In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and melted butter; beat until fully combined and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth and glossy.

4. Assemble

Pour the gooey topping over the cake base, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.

5. Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–45 minutes. The edges should be golden and set, but the center should jiggle slightly when the pan is gently shaken—don’t overbake, or the signature gooeyness will be lost.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 1 hour (for neat slices, cool completely or chill in the fridge). Use the parchment to lift out, then cut into squares or bars.
Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overmix the base: A gentle hand ensures a tender, shortbread-like texture.

• Soften cream cheese fully: Prevents lumps in your gooey layer.

• Sift powdered sugar: This ensures a silky smooth topping.

• Check for doneness: Edges should puff and brown, but the center should still wobble slightly—carryover heat will firm it up.

• Chill for cleaner slices: Gooey butter cake is easier to cut after chilling, but is delicious at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Simply dusted with powdered sugar and served in bars.

• Festive: Top with fresh berries or a swirl of berry coulis for color.

• For a crowd: Serve warm with scoops of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

• Variations: Try adding a little lemon zest, almond extract, or swapping in chocolate chips or toasted pecans for creative twists.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Freeze bars tightly wrapped for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

• Gooey butter cake tastes even better the day after baking—perfect for make-ahead entertaining.

Final Thoughts

Gooey butter cake is a nostalgic St. Louis tradition that’s easy to master at home. With its buttery base and dreamy gooey top, it’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or a decadent treat any day of the week.

Experiment with add-ins or enjoy the classic version—once you try it, you’ll understand why this cake has won hearts for generations.