Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix – Irresistibly Delicious!

Name: Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar (for topping)

Published: April 26, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This gooey butter cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy bakers
The rich flavor will leave everyone asking for seconds
Its beautiful golden-brown top is visually stunning and will impress guests
Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy with various toppings or on its own!

I vividly recall my cousin’s face when she took her first bite; her eyes widened in disbelief followed by an enthusiastic “Oh my gosh!” It was that moment I knew we’d be having this treat on repeat.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy mixing and a rich flavor that makes everything better.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that signature gooey texture.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs provide structure and moisture; let them come to room temperature for best results.
All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; sifting it can help avoid lumps and create a lighter texture.
Baking Powder: Make sure it’s fresh; this will give your cake that necessary lift.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the flavors and adds warmth.
Powdered Sugar: Essential for that sweet topping that transforms this cake into a heavenly dessert.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, you can gather all your ingredients and channel your inner baking guru.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect golden edge.

Create the Base Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. You want it light and fluffy—this is crucial for texture.

Add Eggs & Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract; just smelling it will make you smile!

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder until blended. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until combined but not overworked.

Spread & Bake!: Pour half of the batter into your prepared dish, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Then pour the remaining batter over the top but do not swirl—trust me on this!

Once baked for about 40-45 minutes, you want the edges slightly golden while the center remains soft. It should look like a deliciously messy cloud of joy!

Now that you’ve made your gooey butter cake without using any cake mix, let’s explore fun ways to serve or enjoy this delightful dessert!

You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top or sprinkle with some fresh berries for added zing. If you’re feeling adventurous (and who isn’t?), try drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce over each slice—the possibilities are endless! Grilled salmon with pesto. Moroccan spiced salmon.

This dessert is perfect for any occasion: birthdays, holidays, or just because life deserves some sweetness now and then! So go ahead, grab those ingredients from your pantry and whip up some happiness today!

You Must Know

This Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors and an irresistibly gooey texture
The sweet aroma wafts through your home as it bakes, making it hard to resist
Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Mix all wet ingredients first for a smoother batter before folding in dry ingredients.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your cake by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth. Chocolate cake mix waffles These tweaks can elevate the gooeyness and flavor profile.

Tips and tricks

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For reheating, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that just-baked feel.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best results with this gooey butter cake, remember to use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
Avoid over-mixing the batter; gentle folding creates that perfect texture
Let the cake cool slightly before cutting to ensure clean slices and maximum gooeyness

Baking this Best Gooey Butter Cake Without Cake Mix reminds me of family gatherings when everyone eagerly waited for dessert. The laughter shared over this cake is something I cherish deeply. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Banana Cake Recipe recipe.

FAQ

Can I use different flavors in my gooey butter cake?

Absolutely! Vanilla, chocolate, or even pumpkin spice can work wonderfully.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

The edges should be slightly golden and the center should be set but still gooey.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day ahead; just store it properly to maintain freshness.

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📖 Recipe Card