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Gooey Butter Cake with Brown Butter

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking

Description

This Gooey Butter Cake with Brown Butter takes the traditional dessert to the next level by incorporating nutty, caramelized brown butter into the crust and filling. The result? A buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a soft, gooey center and a slightly crisp top. Perfect for any occasion!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Crust:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (browned)
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Gooey Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (browned)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prepare:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Brown the Butter:
  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  • Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma (about 4–5 minutes).
  • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • Make the Crust:
  • In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
  • Stir in browned butter and vanilla until a dough forms.
  • Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside.
  • Prepare the Filling:
  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
  • Add eggs, vanilla, and salt, mixing well.
  • Gradually beat in powdered sugar, then slowly mix in browned butter until smooth.
  • Assemble & Bake:
  • Pour the filling over the warm crust and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Cool & Serve:
  • Let cool completely before slicing.
  • Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra crunch, add ½ cup chopped pecans to the crust.
  • For a spiced version, add ½ teaspoon cinnamon to the filling.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for later!

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~350
  • Sugar: ~35g
  • Sodium: ~160mg
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Saturated Fat: ~11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~6g
  • Trans Fat: ~0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~45g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~4g
  • Cholesterol: ~80mg