If you adore luscious, melt-in-your-mouth desserts bursting with bright citrus flavors, you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. It’s a spectacularly simple dessert that combines a tender, buttery crust with a rich, creamy lemon filling that’s just the right amount of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family gathering or a festive occasion, this cake brings warmth and sunshine to any table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the pantry staple yellow cake mix to the fresh zing of lemon juice and zest, these ingredients work harmoniously to create something truly special.
- Yellow cake mix: Acts as the base for the buttery crust, providing structure and subtle sweetness.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create a tender, golden crust.
- Large eggs: Bind the dough and filling together, ensuring a perfect gooey consistency.
- Cream cheese, softened: Gives the filling its signature creaminess and slight tanginess.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, comforting note.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling smoothly without any grittiness.
- Lemon zest: Infuses fresh, aromatic citrus oils that brighten the entire dessert.
- Fresh lemon juice: Provides a bright, acidic punch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start your baking adventure by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature is key to locking in the moist, gooey texture that makes this cake irresistible. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg. Stir until a soft dough forms that holds together well. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This buttery crust will be golden and slightly crisp, forming the perfect base for the luscious filling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Then, add the remaining two large eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Beat everything together until the filling is luxuriously smooth and homogenous. The lemon zest and juice give this filling its vibrant, tangy character.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Gently spread the creamy filling over the crust, making sure to cover it evenly. Place the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The edges should turn a lovely golden color, while the center remains set but deliciously gooey — exactly what makes this Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe so addictive.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature. This step is important to let the filling set up just right. For an extra touch of elegance, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve these tender squares as they are to fully appreciate the gooey goodness packed with bright lemon flavor.
How to Serve Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Simplicity is best here. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, delicate finish that contrasts beautifully with the zesty filling. For a fresh and colorful twist, consider scattering thin lemon slices or a few sprigs of mint on top to enhance the presentation and aroma.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy coolness that balances the tangy richness. Serve alongside fresh berries for a vibrant, fresh bite that complements the cake’s citrusy notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the cake into small squares and serve on decorative toothpicks as bite-sized treats at parties. Alternatively, layer pieces with fresh fruit and whipped cream in individual parfait glasses for an eye-catching dessert that highlights every luscious layer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps maintain the creamy filling’s texture and keeps the crust from becoming soggy. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Frozen, it holds up well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to keep that delightful gooey texture intact.
Reheating
For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, so you preserve the gooey quality without drying out the cake. Reheating brings back that mouthwatering softness and bright lemon flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix instead of yellow?
Yellow cake mix provides the perfect subtle sweetness and buttery flavor for this recipe, but you could experiment with white cake mix for a lighter crust. Avoid chocolate or heavily flavored mixes to keep the lemon flavor shining.
Do I have to use fresh lemon juice and zest?
Fresh lemon juice and zest truly make all the difference here by providing vibrant, natural citrus notes. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness, and dried zest doesn’t release the same essential oils, so fresh is definitely worth it!
Why is the cake gooey and not fully set?
The gooey texture is intentional and what makes this cake so special. The filling sets enough to slice neatly but remains soft and luscious in the center, creating that signature “gooey butter” effect.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture might vary slightly but the lemon flavor and gooey deliciousness will still shine through.
Is it possible to make mini cakes or cupcakes with this recipe?
Absolutely! The batter works well baked in smaller pans or muffin tins. Adjust the baking time accordingly, typically 18-22 minutes, and you’ll have perfect bite-sized lemon gooey treats.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves simple, vibrant, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts. It’s easy enough for any skill level, yet feels special enough to impress friends and family. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it out, bring some extra sunshine to your kitchen, and share this little piece of lemony heaven with those you love.
Print
Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Gooey Butter Cake is a luscious, tangy dessert perfect for lemon lovers. Featuring a dense yellow cake crust topped with a creamy, sweet lemon cream cheese filling, this cake bakes to golden perfection while maintaining a delectably gooey center. Ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat, it combines rich butter flavor with fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright, refreshing twist.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg. Stir until a soft dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the cake crust.
- Make the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a clean bowl until smooth and fluffy. Add the 2 large eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue beating the mixture until it becomes creamy and well combined, ensuring a smooth texture without lumps.
- Assemble: Pour and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake crust in the baking dish, smoothing out the top for an even bake.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown, and the center should be set but still gooey, characteristic of the gooey butter cake texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the dish to set. Once cooled, slice into squares and optionally dust the top with powdered sugar before serving at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly gooey for the authentic texture.
- Using fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the bright lemon flavor significantly.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator; serve at room temperature for best taste.
- This recipe yields 12 servings, making it great for parties and gatherings.
