Gooey Butter Cake with Brown Butter takes the classic St. Louis dessert to the next level by incorporating rich, nutty brown butter. This indulgent treat features a buttery, chewy base topped with a luscious, gooey filling that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion when you crave a decadent dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elevated Flavor – Brown butter adds a deep, nutty richness.
• Gooey and Irresistible – A soft, custardy filling atop a chewy crust.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for celebrations or a cozy treat at home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• Unsalted butter (browned and slightly cooled)
• Yellow cake mix
• Eggs

For the Filling:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• More browned butter

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Make the Brown Butter: Melt butter over medium heat, stirring until golden brown with a nutty aroma. Let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix cake mix, eggs, and browned butter. Press into the bottom of the baking pan.
4. Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla, and the remaining browned butter until smooth.
5. Assemble: Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.
6. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and Serve: Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Version – Use a chocolate cake mix for a deeper flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice Twist – Add pumpkin puree and cinnamon to the filling.
• Nutty Crunch – Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
• Salted Caramel Drizzle – Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
• Lemon Gooey Butter Cake – Use lemon cake mix and add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10 seconds.

FAQs

What does browning the butter do?

It enhances the flavor with a nutty, caramelized depth.

Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed?

Yes! A homemade mix of flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt works well.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The edges should be set, but the center should still jiggle slightly.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! Try butter pecan, spice cake, or white cake mix.

Why is my filling too runny?

Make sure to bake until the edges are firm and let it cool completely before slicing.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix for the crust.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Chill the cake before slicing and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I add extra flavorings?

Yes! A dash of almond extract or cinnamon can add even more depth.

Should I refrigerate gooey butter cake?

It’s best stored at room temperature for a couple of days but can be refrigerated for longer shelf life.

How do I serve this?

Enjoy as-is, with whipped cream, or alongside a cup of coffee.

Conclusion

Gooey Butter Cake with Brown Butter is a rich, indulgent dessert that takes a classic favorite to the next level. With its chewy base, creamy filling, and deep, nutty flavors, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try it today and experience the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth treat!

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