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Gooey Butter Cake with Cake Mix Recipe

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3.9 from 7 reviews

This Gooey Butter Cake recipe uses a simple yellow cake mix combined with a rich cream cheese filling to create a delightfully soft and gooey dessert. Baked in a 9x13 pan, it has a buttery crust topped with a creamy, sweet filling that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 15.25 ounce package yellow cake mix
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Filling

  • 8 ounce package cream cheese (at room temperature)
  • 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups sifted powdered sugar (plus extra for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray, then line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Set aside.
  2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir with a fork until the ingredients form a dough.
  3. Press the Crust: Evenly press the dough mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the crust base. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
  4. Make the Filling: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, 2 eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing continuously until fully incorporated and the mixture is thick and creamy.
  6. Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan, spreading gently if needed.
  7. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden brown and the center still jiggles slightly when moved.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
  • Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly for the perfect gooey texture.
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper to make removing the cake easier.
  • Leftover cake can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • For easier slicing, chill the cake before cutting.