I. What is Gooey Butter Cake?
Gooey Butter Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. It is a type of coffee cake that has a gooey, buttery filling that is both sweet and slightly tangy. The cake has a dense and chewy texture, with a crispy top layer that adds a nice contrast to the gooey center. Gooey Butter Cake is typically served as a dessert, but it can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
II. History of Gooey Butter Cake
The origins of Gooey Butter Cake can be traced back to the 1930s in St. Louis, Missouri. Legend has it that the recipe was created by accident when a baker mixed up the ingredients for a traditional coffee cake. Instead of starting over, the baker decided to bake the cake anyway, and the result was a deliciously gooey and buttery dessert that became an instant hit with customers.
Over the years, Gooey Butter Cake has become a beloved dessert in St. Louis and has spread to other parts of the country. It is now a popular treat at bakeries, cafes, and restaurants, and many home bakers have their own versions of the recipe.
III. Ingredients in Gooey Butter Cake
The key ingredients in Gooey Butter Cake include butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and cream cheese. The buttery filling is made by mixing together cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture is then poured over a layer of cake batter made from flour, sugar, butter, and baking powder.
Some variations of Gooey Butter Cake may also include additional ingredients such as lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon to add extra flavor to the dessert. The cake is typically baked in a square or rectangular pan and can be topped with powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for added sweetness.
IV. How to Make Gooey Butter Cake
To make Gooey Butter Cake, start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 box of yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1 egg until well blended. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
In another mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of melted butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Gooey Butter Cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.
V. Variations of Gooey Butter Cake
While the classic Gooey Butter Cake recipe is a beloved favorite, there are many variations of the dessert that you can try. Some popular variations include adding chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different cake mix flavors, such as chocolate or lemon, to create a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
For a seasonal twist, try adding pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a delicious fall-inspired Gooey Butter Cake. You can also top the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
VI. Serving and Enjoying Gooey Butter Cake
Gooey Butter Cake is best served warm or at room temperature, so the gooey filling is soft and melty. You can enjoy a slice of Gooey Butter Cake on its own, or pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat. The cake is perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out one of the many variations, Gooey Butter Cake is sure to be a hit with friends and family. Its rich, buttery flavor and gooey texture make it a truly indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion.