Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a delectable dessert that’s rich, buttery, and irresistibly delicious. Originating from St. Louis, Missouri, this cake has become a favorite for many due to its unique texture and mouthwatering flavor. If you’re a fan of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth desserts, this recipe is a must-try. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to make the perfect Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, share some tips for success, and delve into its origins and variations.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 package yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Press the Dough: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This will form the base of your Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Butter: Add the two eggs and melted butter to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined.
- Mix in Vanilla and Sugar: Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar to the mixture. Beat on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase the speed to medium and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Pour Over the Crust: Pour the filling mixture over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the center should still be a bit gooey. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cake to remain moist and gooey in the middle.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting it into squares.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Cut and Serve: Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares and serve. The Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is perfect on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- Don’t Overbake: The key to the perfect Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is not to overbake it. The center should remain slightly gooey, so check the cake at the 40-minute mark.
- Experiment with Flavors: While the classic recipe is delicious, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try adding different extracts or mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit to the filling.
Variations
Chocolate Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
For a chocolate twist, use a chocolate cake mix for the crust and add cocoa powder to the filling.
Pumpkin Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
For a fall-inspired version, add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices to the filling mixture. This variation is perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering.
Lemon Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
For a refreshing citrus flavor, use a lemon cake mix and add lemon zest and juice to the filling. This version is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
The Origin of Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
The Ooey Gooey Butter Cake originated in St. Louis, Missouri, in the 1930s. The story goes that a German-American baker accidentally used the wrong proportions of ingredients while making a butter cake, resulting in the gooey, delicious dessert we know and love today. Since then, it has become a staple in St. Louis bakeries and homes and has gained popularity across the United States.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. It’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Versatile: With so many variations, you can customize the cake to suit your taste preferences or the season.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, potluck, or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Conclusion
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its rich, buttery flavor and irresistible gooey center, it’s no wonder this cake has stood the test of time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!
