The Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a true Southern classic that everyone loves. This dessert has a crunchy crust and a very soft, creamy center. Learning how to make Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake is easy and fun for every home baker.
You only need a few simple pantry staples to begin. This iconic treat is famous for its rich, buttery flavor and very decadent, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
If you have a weakness for indulgent, butter-forward Southern desserts, you will also want to check out this deeply rich butter-based pie that belongs in every dessert lover’s recipe box.
My Story With This Comforting Gooey Butter Cake
I first tasted this famous cake at a family potluck on a very warm afternoon. I was immediately hooked by the contrast between the crispy edges and the gooey, sweet center.
I asked for the recipe right away because I knew my own family would love it.Since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen for every single holiday and celebration.
There is something truly special about how it turns simple ingredients into a very impressive, golden dessert. Baking this for friends always brings a smile to their faces and makes the home feel so welcoming.
Equipment List
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Serving knife
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake
- Servings: 15 servings
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Calories: 390 kcal per serving
Ingredients for Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 egg (for the cake base)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs (for the filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (for the filling)
Instructions for Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
1. Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 175°C and spray a 9×13 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, one egg, and melted butter until combined.
Using a box mix as a shortcut is one of the best-kept secrets in home baking — it is the same approach behind this crowd-pleasing coffee-soaked poke cake that has become a reader favorite here.
2. Press into Pan
Spread your cake base mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan firmly. Using your hands or a spatula helps to create a flat and consistent layer for baking.
3. Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and very creamy. Add the two eggs and vanilla extract while continuing to mix at a medium speed.
Always make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start — working with cold cream cheese is the most common reason fillings turn out lumpy. If you love a cream cheese-based dessert, you might also enjoy this elegant no-bake cheesecake that comes together with minimal effort and is perfect for warmer days when you would rather skip the oven.
4. Add the Sugar
Slowly mix in the powdered sugar until your filling is smooth and free of any lumps. This step ensures that the final result is perfectly sweet and has that signature gooey texture.
5. Pour the Filling
Pour the cream cheese filling over the cake base layer and spread it to the edges. This creates the beautiful contrast between the crust and the soft center as it bakes.
6. Bake the Cake
Place the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about forty minutes until golden brown. The center should remain slightly soft and jiggly while the edges become firm and very crispy.
7. Cool Before Serving
Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before you start slicing. This resting time allows the gooey center to set up enough so it is easy to serve.
Cooking Tips and Simple Recipe Variations
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for the smoothest filling possible. Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top after cooling for a very professional presentation.
- You can add a half cup of mini chocolate chips to the filling for more flavor. Swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate one to create a very rich, brownie-like version.
- Do not overbake the center it should still look a little bit soft when you remove it. Serving this cake with fresh berries helps to balance the sweetness of the gooey, sugary filling — and if you want to build a full berry dessert spread, this light and fluffy strawberry shortcake makes a wonderful companion on any dessert table.
A Little History Behind This Comfort Food
Gooey butter cake has roots in St. Louis, Missouri, dating back to the early twentieth century. It was created by accident when a baker accidentally added too much butter to a cake mix.
Paula Deen later shared this version with her fans, making it a nationwide favorite for all bakers. This recipe represents the spirit of Southern comfort, turning a happy kitchen mistake into a legendary dessert.
It is a classic that reminds us how simple ingredients can create something truly iconic and very delicious.
What to Serve With This Dish
This Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is perfect when served with a hot cup of black coffee. It also tastes wonderful alongside a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream for a warm contrast.
You can serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled for a different, very satisfying eating experience. Fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side add a nice tartness to cut the heavy, sweet butter flavor.
It is a crowd-pleasing dessert that feels right at home on any dining room table.
Occasion or Event Ideas
Bake this cake for a neighborhood block party or a summer picnic with all your dear friends. It is a fantastic choice for a church potluck because it is very easy to transport safely.
If you are putting together a full Southern-style potluck spread, this gloriously rich pecan pie is another crowd-pleaser that travels just as well and satisfies that same deep craving for something sweet and nutty.
For a dessert table that truly celebrates Southern baking, pairing this gooey butter cake alongside Paula Deen’s legendary layered banana pudding guarantees you will come home with an empty dish every single time.
This dessert is also perfect for a cozy weekend brunch when you want something special and very sweet. Use it as a highlight for a birthday celebration or a casual family dinner on a Friday night.
It is a reliable, sweet treat that always makes people feel comfortable and very happy to be together.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week for a firmer texture. It freezes beautifully just wrap individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer bag.
Let frozen slices thaw on the counter for thirty minutes before eating. Do not reheat in the microwave for too long, or the gooey center will become liquid. Keep it away from direct heat or sunny windows to prevent the butter from melting inside.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Protein | 4g |
Is This Dish Good for You?
While this cake is a rich and sugary treat, it is meant to be enjoyed on special occasions. Sharing a homemade dessert is a wonderful way to build connections and celebrate life with your loved ones.
Indulging in a small slice of gooey butter cake can provide a moment of pure, sweet joy. Focus on the happiness it brings to your heart rather than just the numbers on a plate. Everything in moderation is the key to enjoying all of life’s most delicious, buttery little pleasures.
Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 egg for the cake base
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 eggs for the filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup butter melted (for the filling)
Instructions
Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 175°C and spray a 9×13 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, one egg, and melted butter until combined.
- Using a box mix as a shortcut is one of the best-kept secrets in home baking — it is the same approach behind this crowd-pleasing coffee-soaked poke cake that has become a reader favorite here.
Press into Pan
- Spread your cake base mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan firmly. Using your hands or a spatula helps to create a flat and consistent layer for baking.
Mix the Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and very creamy. Add the two eggs and vanilla extract while continuing to mix at a medium speed.
- Always make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start — working with cold cream cheese is the most common reason fillings turn out lumpy. If you love a cream cheese-based dessert, you might also enjoy this elegant no-bake cheesecake that comes together with minimal effort and is perfect for warmer days when you would rather skip the oven.
Add the Sugar
- Slowly mix in the powdered sugar until your filling is smooth and free of any lumps. This step ensures that the final result is perfectly sweet and has that signature gooey texture.
Pour the Filling
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the cake base layer and spread it to the edges. This creates the beautiful contrast between the crust and the soft center as it bakes.
Bake the Cake
- Place the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about forty minutes until golden brown. The center should remain slightly soft and jiggly while the edges become firm and very crispy.
Cool Before Serving
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before you start slicing. This resting time allows the gooey center to set up enough so it is easy to serve.
Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for the smoothest filling possible. Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top after cooling for a very professional presentation.
- You can add a half cup of mini chocolate chips to the filling for more flavor. Swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate one to create a very rich, brownie-like version.
- Do not overbake the center it should still look a little bit soft when you remove it. Serving this cake with fresh berries helps to balance the sweetness of the gooey, sugary filling — and if you want to build a full berry dessert spread, this light and fluffy strawberry shortcake makes a wonderful companion on any dessert table.
FAQs about Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Why is it called gooey?
The center layer stays very soft and dense even after baking because of the high sugar content. This creates that signature texture that is soft, creamy, and delightful to eat with a fork.
Can I use a different pan?
A 9×13 inch pan is ideal for getting the perfect ratio of crust to gooey center filling. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker and require more baking time.
Is it very sweet?
Yes, this cake is quite sweet due to the powdered sugar used in the cream cheese filling. Serving it with unsweetened coffee or fresh tart fruit helps to balance the sweetness very well.
Can I make it ahead?
You can bake it a day early, as the flavors often improve and settle overnight in the pan. Cover it tightly and store it on the counter until you are ready to serve.
Will it stick to the pan?
Using a generous amount of non-stick cooking spray is important for removing the pieces easily. You can also line your pan with parchment paper to ensure perfect slices every single time.
Final Thoughts
I hope you have a wonderful time making this Paula Deen Gooey Butter Cake Recipe in your kitchen. It is a legendary dessert that turns humble ingredients into something truly special for your family.
There is nothing quite like the contrast of a crispy base and a soft, sugary center. This recipe is simple, reliable and will certainly become a favorite tradition you return to often.
Thank you for joining me to explore this classic Southern comfort food journey. Happy baking, and I hope you enjoy every single buttery and gooey bite of your homemade cake!
Hi! I’m Livy Lane, the creator of LivyCooks.com. I share easy, delicious recipes anyone can make at home. Let’s cook, taste and enjoy every bite together!