Name: Absolutely Incredible Gooey Butter Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ((7½oz/213g)); 6 tablespoons butter ((3oz/85g, melted)); ⅔ cup dark brown sugar ((4oz/115g, divided)); ½ cup dark brown sugar ((3oz/85g, divided)); ½ cup granulated sugar ((4oz/115g)); 2 large eggs ((divided, at room temperature)); 2 large eggs ((divided, at room temperature)); 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¾ teaspoon salt; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar ((14oz/402g)); 1 cup cream cheese ((8oz/225g, softened)); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

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This Absolutely Incredible Gooey Butter Cake is a dessert that delivers pure indulgence in every bite. With its rich, buttery base and irresistibly gooey topping, it’s a treat that melts in your mouth. The contrast of the soft, chewy crust and the velvety, custard-like center creates a texture that’s simply divine. In just 25 minutes of prep, you’ll have this masterpiece ready to bake, filling your kitchen with the warm, sweet aroma of vanilla and butter.

After an hour in the oven, you’ll be rewarded with a golden, caramelized top that gives way to a luscious, creamy interior. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is decadent. Every slice promises a symphony of flavors—sweet, buttery, and utterly unforgettable. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Absolutely Incredible Gooey Butter Cake Ingredients

1 ½ cups (7½oz/213g) all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons (3oz/85g) butter, melted
⅔ cup (4oz/115g) dark brown sugar (for the base layer)
½ cup (3oz/85g) dark brown sugar (for the topping)
½ cup (4oz/115g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs (for the base layer, at room temperature)
2 large eggs (for the topping, at room temperature)
2 teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon salt
3 ½ cups (14oz/402g) powdered sugar
1 cup (8oz/225g) cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9 inch (23x23cm) square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Make the base layer: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the flour, melted butter, ⅔ cup (4oz/115g) dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, 2 eggs, baking powder, and salt. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup (3oz/85g) dark brown sugar, 2 eggs, powdered sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the cake: Pour the topping mixture over the base layer in the pan. Do not stir or mix the layers together.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the cake is set but still slightly jiggles in the center when shaken.
Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out of the pan. Cut into 9 squares and serve warm with whipped cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Perfect Pairings: Toppings and Serving Ideas

While this gooey butter cake is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fruity twist, drizzle with raspberry or caramel sauce or top with fresh berries. Serve warm for that irresistible gooey texture!

Storing and Reheating for Maximum Enjoyment

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop a square in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This will bring back that freshly baked, gooey goodness!

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

To streamline the process, melt the butter while preheating the oven and lining the pan. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to quickly combine the ingredients for both layers. If you’re short on time, you can skip the parchment paper and simply grease the pan well for easy removal.

Recipe Variations to Mix It Up

For a fun twist, try adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the base layer or swapping the vanilla extract for almond or lemon extract in the cream cheese layer. You can also experiment with different sugars, like coconut sugar, for a unique flavor profile.

Common Questions Answered

Wondering if the cake is done? It should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when shaken. If it’s too firm, it might be overbaked. For a cleaner cut, let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. And yes, you can use light brown sugar if dark brown isn’t available—it’ll still taste amazing!