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
Scale
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.
