Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

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If you’re craving rich, melt-in-your-mouth dessert, Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is the answer. This Southern classic draws fans from all over for its luscious texture and decadent flavor. Whether you’re looking for the perfect finish to Sunday dinner or something playful for a potluck, this cake fits the bill. Let’s dig into the details, from ingredients and method to serving ideas and handy tips.

What Makes Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Special?

At its core, this cake delivers on its name—expect every bite to be both ooey and gooey. The secret is in the combination of a simple cake base and a creamy, slightly tangy topping. The results are soft, custardy layers baked together, balancing richness and sweetness. While some may compare it to a blondie or even a cheesecake bar, this cake stands on its own as a hallmark of indulgent baking.

Ingredients

You won’t need rare ingredients or advanced equipment to pull off this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need, plus simple pointers that ensure success:

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 ounces)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (1 stick)
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (1 stick)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)

Everything is available at most grocery stores, making this dessert accessible for weeknight bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Smooth results depend on a few simple techniques. Here’s how to make Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake from scratch:

1. Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray. For easy removal, you can also line the pan with parchment paper, letting it hang a bit over the sides.

2. Make the Cake Base

• In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg.
• Stir with a spatula or mix on low speed until a soft dough forms.
• Press this mixture evenly along the bottom of your prepared baking pan, making sure to reach the corners.

3. Prepare the Filling

• In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth.
• Add in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix well until everything is incorporated.
• Gradually fold in the powdered sugar. Mixing it in a little at a time helps prevent lumps and clouded kitchen counters.

4. Assemble the Cake

• Pour the filling mixture over the cake base.
• Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, ensuring full coverage.

5. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes.
• Check for doneness by looking for set, golden edges and a center that still jiggles slightly.
• Avoid overbaking—the cake should remain soft and gooey in the middle.

6. Cool and Serve

• Cool the cake in the pan for at least 30 to 40 minutes before slicing.
• Sift a little extra powdered sugar over the top for a classic look.
• Slice into squares using a sharp, clean knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for neater pieces.

Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Although this cake is famously easy, a few smart moves can elevate your results:

• Room-Temperature Dairy: Let the cream cheese and eggs come to room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and ensures a silkier filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix just until smooth for a creamy texture. Overbeating can incorporate excess air, which affects the dense quality of the cake.
• That Jiggle Test: When you take the cake out of the oven, the center should wobble slightly. This is your guarantee of gooey goodness.
• Let It Set: For cleaner slices, allow the cake to cool fully. If you’re in a hurry, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This cake shines on its own, but you can dress it up or down, depending on the occasion.

• A La Mode: Top with vanilla ice cream for an ultra-luxurious treat.
• Fresh Berries: Pile on strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to cut through the richness.
• Whipped Cream: Dollop with freshly whipped cream for a light, fluffy contrast.
• Drizzle Some Sauce: Try a spoonful of caramel or chocolate sauce for added decadence.
• After-Dinner Coffee: Serve with strong coffee or espresso. The mild bitterness balances the cake’s sweetness.

The flexibility is half the fun. Try serving the cake slightly warm or cold, depending on your mood.

Customizing Your Cake: Flavor Variations

Changing the cake mix is the easiest way to make this recipe your own. The basic structure remains the same, while the flavors jump in a new direction.

• Chocolate Cake Mix: Swap yellow for chocolate for brownie-like results.
• Lemon or Strawberry Mixes: Opt for a fruity twist—these mixes brighten the flavor and color.
• Butter Pecan or Spice: For autumn gatherings, try butter pecan or classic spice cake for a nutty, cozy flavor.

Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon, a handful of toasted pecans, or even mixing citrus zest into the filling for zing.

Ooey Gooey Butter Cake vs. Pound Cake

Some dessert fans lump butter cake in with pound cake, but the differences are worth noting. While both feature simple starches and a high fat content, the technique and ratios set them apart.

The addition of cream cheese in butter cake creates a gooey, almost fudge-like texture. In contrast, pound cake is dense, buttery, and straightforward, without the creamy topping.

Storage and Freshness

Due to its moist nature, Ooey Gooey Butter Cake keeps well when stored properly.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days covered in the refrigerator.
• Freeze: You can freeze leftover slices. Wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temp.

To reheat, warm slices briefly in the microwave or oven on low heat to revive their ooey gooey quality.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Even the simplest recipes have hiccups. Here’s how to solve the most common issues with butter cake:

• Too Runny After Baking: It may need a few extra minutes, or it may not have cooled enough to set properly. Chill briefly to help it firm up.
• Cake Sinks in the Middle: Resist opening the oven early, and check the filling is spread evenly.
• Tough Base: Avoid packing the cake mix base down too hard—gentle pressure works best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Ooey Gooey Butter Cake ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare a day in advance and store in the fridge until ready to slice and serve.

Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes—use a gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of regular. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use salted butter?
If that’s all you have, a stick will work, but the finished cake may taste a touch saltier.

Does this freeze well?
Butter cake freezes beautifully. Wrap slices tightly to keep them tasting fresh.

Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is true comfort food. Easy to prepare, impossible to resist, and endlessly adaptable, this dessert is great for gatherings, gifting, or solo snacking. Get creative with your mix-ins and toppings, share slices with friends, or savor them the next day over a quiet cup of coffee. The only challenge is saving a piece for later.