Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that combines a buttery cake base, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a rich butter sauce. This recipe, created by Jennifer Fishkind, is beginner-friendly and perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply when you want a sweet homemade treat. With the convenience of a cake mix, it comes together quickly yet delivers bakery-quality results.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 package yellow cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8-ounce block cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar

For the Butter Sauce:

• ¼ cup salted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the cake base by mixing yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Press into the bottom of the pan.
3. For the cream cheese layer, beat softened cream cheese, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fully combined. Spread over the cake layer.
4. Bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly puffy.
5. While the cake bakes, prepare the butter sauce. In a saucepan, combine salted butter, granulated sugar, and evaporated milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking often, for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened and golden. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
6. Pour the butter sauce over the warm or cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve warm for a gooey, custard-like texture, or let it cool for a firmer slice.
• Pair with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for a warm serving.
• Freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Variations

• Lemon Butter Cake – Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and zest to the cream cheese layer and sauce for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Chocolate Butter Cake – Use a chocolate cake mix as the base and drizzle with chocolate ganache instead of butter sauce.
• Nutty Delight – Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the cake and cream cheese layers for crunch and flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice Butter Cake – Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for a cozy fall variation.
• Berry Butter Cake – Top with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries before serving for a fruity finish.
• Caramel Drizzle Butter Cake – Replace the butter sauce with caramel sauce for a richer, sweeter topping.
• Coconut Cream Butter Cake – Sprinkle shredded coconut into the cream cheese mixture and garnish with toasted coconut.

FAQs

1. Is Butter Cake the same as Gooey Butter Cake?
   They are very similar, but this recipe includes a buttery sauce topping for extra richness.
2. Do I need to refrigerate Butter Cake?
   Yes, because of the cream cheese layer, it should be stored in the fridge.
3. Can I make Butter Cake ahead of time?
   Absolutely. Bake it the day before, and drizzle with butter sauce before serving.
4. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   You can, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.
5. Can I use a different flavor cake mix?
   Yes. Chocolate, spice, or white cake mix all work well.
6. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   The top should be golden and slightly puffy. The center may jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools.
7. Can I freeze Butter Cake?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
8. What can I substitute for evaporated milk in the sauce?
   Half-and-half or heavy cream works as a substitute.
9. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, use two 9×13 pans if doubling for larger gatherings.
10. What’s the best way to serve it for guests?
    Slice into squares and drizzle with warm butter sauce. Garnish with powdered sugar or fruit for presentation.

This Butter Cake recipe is the perfect blend of chewy, creamy, and buttery goodness. It’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and endlessly versatile with different variations. Whether you serve it warm with gooey layers or chilled for a firmer slice, this dessert will be the highlight of any meal or special occasion.

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