Irresistible Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix

There’s something utterly irresistible about a gooey butter cake, especially when you realize it doesn’t come from a box. The Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix is like a warm hug on a plate, with its buttery layers and sweet, creamy top that just melts in your mouth. Imagine cutting into that golden crust and revealing the luscious, gooey interior that beckons you to take another bite. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone forget their troubles – or at least their diet.

I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a family gathering where my aunt had brought her famous version. The moment I tasted it, I was hooked! We all stood around the table, forks in hand, laughing and reminiscing while devouring slice after slice. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together and creates memories worth savoring. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or even casual weeknight dinners, this cake promises to be the star of your dessert lineup.

I remember making this gooey butter cake for a surprise party; everyone was raving about it long after the last crumb had vanished!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich flavor; always melt it before mixing.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar works best for sweetness; don’t skimp on this crucial ingredient.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs are key; they help bind everything together beautifully.

• Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract for an aromatic boost in flavor.

• All-Purpose Flour: This will provide structure to your cake without making it too dense.

• Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that gives your cake that perfect lift.

• Powdered Sugar: Essential for dusting on top, adding sweetness and a beautiful finish.

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

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and perfectly gooey.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking during baking.

Create the Base Mixture: In a large bowl, cream together melted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is vital for a tender base.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. You want smoothness here!

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder before gradually adding them to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t overdo it!

Pour Into Dish and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Create the Gooey Topping: While your cake bakes, combine powdered sugar with cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition.

Add Topping Before Final Bake : After 30 minutes of baking, pour the gooey topping over your partially baked cake gently and return it to bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set but still soft inside.

With these steps completed, let your masterpiece cool slightly before slicing into those decadent squares of gooey goodness! Enjoy every bite.

This Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix is sure to become a beloved staple in your home kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk together the ingredients in one bowl and pour into a greased pan for an even bake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap vanilla extract for almond or add chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat. Customize this cake based on your cravings!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, keeping them gooey.

Creating this Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix reminds me of that one time I surprised my friends at a potluck. They were convinced I had bought it from a fancy bakery!

FAQ

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just store it properly.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a similar texture.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick; it should come out with slight moist crumbs attached but not wet batter.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 16 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix. With its buttery layers and luscious topping, each bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Whisk together flour and baking powder in another bowl; gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
6. While baking, mix powdered sugar and softened cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time.
7. After initial bake, pour the gooey topping over the cake and return to oven for an additional 20-25 minutes or until set but still soft inside.
8. Let cool slightly before slicing into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (90g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 75mg