Description
To understand the magic of this dish, it helps to break down exactly what happens in the baking pan. A traditional gooey butter cake squares setup features two distinctly beautiful layers that interact during the baking process to create a unique texture. The bottom layer is a firm, structured base made by combining a classic yellow cake mix with melted butter and a fresh egg. This mixture creates a thick, cookie-like dough that is pressed firmly into the bottom of a rectangular baking pan, providing a sturdy foundation for everything that follows.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Gooey Filling
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Base
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg.
- Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the melted butter.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base.
- Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Avoid overbaking—the center should remain soft and gooey.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for cleaner slices.
- Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
For the signature gooey texture, avoid overbaking. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove the cake from the oven—it will firm up as it cools.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 340 kcal
Keywords: Gooey butter cake recipe, Saint Louis butter cake bars, cream cheese dessert squares