When I first set foot in St. Louis, Missouri, I was immediately captivated by the warm hospitality of the locals and the tantalizing aromas wafting through the streets. Among the culinary treasures of this vibrant city, the gooey butter cake stands out as a true favorite. This rich, decadent dessert, with its buttery crust and a soft, gooey top, is a delightful contradiction—both cake and pie at once. Inspired by the spirit of St. Louis, I’ve crafted this recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but is guaranteed to leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the gooey filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For serving:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries or whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your cake slides out effortlessly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and the egg. Stir until the mixture is well-blended and forms a thick dough. Press this dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a crust.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the filling is smooth and free of lumps. The mixture should be thick and luscious.
Pour the gooey filling over the crust, gently spreading it to cover the entire surface. Don’t worry if it looks a bit uneven; this will create that delightful gooey texture as it bakes.
Bake the cake in your preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still wobbly. The cake will continue to firm up as it cools.
Once baked, remove the gooey butter cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. For an extra touch of elegance, sift powdered sugar over the top before slicing into squares.
Serve warm or at room temperature, accompanied by fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Each bite is a heavenly blend of buttery richness and sweet creaminess, transporting you straight to the heart of St. Louis with every morsel.
Indulge in this delightful gooey butter cake and share it with family and friends, celebrating not just the flavors but the stories and culture that inspired it. Enjoy!