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Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 278 reviews
  • Author: Deborah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 squares
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Lemon Gooey Butter Cake features a moist lemon-flavored cake base topped with a rich, creamy, and gooey lemon cream cheese layer. With its irresistible sweet tang and luscious texture, it’s an easy-to-make dessert perfect for gatherings or a special treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Layer

  • 15.25 ounces lemon cake mix
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 2 eggs

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 eggs


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking your lemon gooey butter cake.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.
  3. Make the Cake Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  4. Spread Cake Layer: Evenly spread the cake batter into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a consistent base layer.
  5. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate medium bowl, using an electric mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, remaining 2 eggs, and 4 cups powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add Cream Cheese Layer: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer in the baking dish.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Bake until the top is lightly golden; the center will remain gooey.
  8. Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely. Optionally, dust the top with additional powdered sugar before serving.
  9. Serve: Cut the cooled cake into 12 squares and serve to enjoy the perfect balance of lemon flavor and gooey richness.

Notes

  • This cake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled to maintain its gooey texture.
  • You can substitute the lemon cake mix with a yellow cake mix and add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest for a fresh lemon flavor if desired.
  • Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the topping mixture.
  • Use cooking spray with flour or butter to prevent sticking in the baking dish.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.