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Gooey Butter Cake

This Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert made with two simple layers: a soft, buttery base and a sweet, creamy cream cheese topping. Baked until golden on the edges and delightfully gooey in the center, it’s the kind of treat that feels both nostalgic and special.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 Squares
Course: Dessert
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Cake Base (Crust)
  • 1½ cups All-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup Granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp Baking powder
  • ¼ tsp Salt
  • 1 Large egg
  • ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter melted, and slightly cooled
  • 2 tbsp Milk
  • 1 tsp Vanilla
Gooey Topping
  • 8 oz Cream cheese softened
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 3½-4 cups Powdered sugar depending on desired sweetness

Equipment

  • 2 Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Pan
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Base
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, milk, and vanilla.
    Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (the batter will be thick).
    Spread and gently press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
  3. Make the Gooey Layer
    In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
    Add eggs and vanilla; mix until creamy.
    Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth and fluffy.
  4. Assemble & Bake
    Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base and spread evenly.
    Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the center is still slightly jiggly (it will set as it cools).
  5. Cool & Serve
    Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
    Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.