Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake


Indulging in a Southern Classic
There’s just something about the phrase "Ooey Gooey Butter Cake" that transports me back to cherished family gatherings where sweet treats take center stage. This recipe hails from the culinary queen of Southern comfort food, Paula Deen. Known for its rich flavor and creamy texture, this cake delivers all the nostalgia and indulgence that come with a homemade dessert. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, bringing something special to a potluck, or simply craving something sweet at home, Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience!
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why should you dive into making this cake? First off, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This means you can satisfy even the strongest sweet tooth without a long shopping list or complicated techniques.
Plus, who doesn’t want to savor a dessert that is as comforting as a hug? Kids adore it, and it works brilliantly for both festive occasions and laid-back weeknights. You’ll find yourself coming back for seconds—or thirds! And if you’re curious about what others think, here’s a fabulous review:
"This is my go-to dessert for every family gathering. It’s so rich and delicious, and everyone asks for the recipe!" – A thrilled fan
Preparing Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake!
Let’s break down the journey to creating this gooey delight. This cake is composed of two layers: a simple cake base and a creamy, luscious filling that melds seamlessly together as it bakes. You’ll start by creating the cake layer, followed by blending up the filling. It’s truly that simple!
Key Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this cake to life:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 (8 oz.) package full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs (yes, more eggs!)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup butter (melted, again!)
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using light cream cheese, though it may affect the texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions


- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures even baking.
- Prepare your pan by spraying a 9-inch by 3-inch round cake pan with baking spray or lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Press the cake mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, smoothing it out as flat as possible.
- For the filling, in another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 more large eggs, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, 1 tsp. heavy cream, and 1/2 tsp. salt until creamy and well combined.
- Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until you have a smooth filling.
- Pour the filling over the pressed cake mixture in the pan.
- Bake in the oven for about 40-50 minutes until the edges are set but the middle is still soft.
The Best Ways to Enjoy It
Once out of the oven, allow it to cool before slicing. Serve your cake warm or at room temperature, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or drizzled with chocolate sauce for that extra special touch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with afternoon coffee or a glass of cold milk!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you have any leftovers (though I can’t imagine that happening!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure that you reheat them gently if you want that warm, gooey goodness again!
Pro Chef Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix. When incorporating your ingredients, especially the cake batter, mix just until combined to ensure a tender cake.
- Let it cool. Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it will help maintain its structure.
- Sifting sugar. For a smoother filling, sift your confectioners’ sugar before adding it to the mixture.
Exploring Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize this cake! Consider adding chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate gooey butter cake or sprinkling fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fresh twist. For a seasonal flair, pumpkin spice can be incorporated during fall!
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this cake?
This ooey gooey butter cake takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, followed by 40-50 minutes in the oven.
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavored cake mix, but vanilla or butter flavor blends work best to complement the filling.
Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of it. Just wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
By following this guide, you’re ready to dive into the world of Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. Enjoy the sweet journey, and happy baking!


Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure even baking.
- Spray a 9-inch by 3-inch round cake pan with baking spray or line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Press the cake mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, smoothing it out as flat as possible.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 more large eggs, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, 1 tsp. heavy cream, and 1/2 tsp. salt until creamy and well combined.
- Gradually add in the confectioners' sugar, mixing until you have a smooth filling.
- Pour the filling over the pressed cake mixture in the pan.
- Bake in the oven for about 40-50 minutes until the edges are set but the middle is still soft.






