If you’re craving a dessert that’s rich, comforting, and irresistibly sweet, look no further than Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. Originally from St. Louis, this iconic treat has captured hearts nationwide with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and buttery goodness. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive in!
What is Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Made Of?
This delightful dessert is built with two layers:
- The crust: A dense, buttery base often made with yellow cake mix or homemade batter.
- The filling: A creamy, gooey layer made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
While the classic recipe is divine, there are countless variations to explore, from chocolate to pumpkin spice. We’ll cover some creative twists later in the post.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick list of everything required for this recipe:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
How to Make Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. The dough should be thick but spreadable.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
2: Create the Filling
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, folding gently to avoid lumps.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, while the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares. Patience is key for perfect slices!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
- Add fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, for a touch of brightness.
- Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance presentation.
- Pair with freshly brewed coffee or tea for the ultimate afternoon treat.
Storing Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- At Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Ooey Gooey Butter Cake: Use chocolate cake mix or add cocoa powder to the filling for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices to the filling for a fall-inspired dessert.
- Lemon Zest: Mix lemon zest into the filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust for added crunch.

FAQs for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Yes! You can bake it a day in advance. Once cooled, cover tightly and store at room temperature or refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld even more.
The magic lies in its contrasting textures: a dense, buttery crust paired with a gooey, creamy filling that’s incredibly satisfying.
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Yes! Try red velvet, chocolate, or even lemon cake mix to customize the flavor profile.
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.
Yes! Popular toppings include a sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips for the Perfect Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room-temperature butter and eggs for smoother mixing.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold ingredients to maintain a light and airy filling.
- Line the Pan: Use parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.
Related Recipes
Looking for more indulgent desserts? Check these out:
Final Thoughts
Making Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. Its nostalgic charm and rich flavor make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, you’ll end up with a dessert that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest and tag us with your own delicious twists. Happy baking!
PrintOoey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A rich, buttery dessert originating from St. Louis, perfect for any occasion with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and gooey center.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. The dough should be thick but spreadable.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, folding gently to avoid lumps.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, while the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares. Patience is key for perfect slices!
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the filling. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: ooey gooey butter cake, dessert, St. Louis classic