Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re a fan of zesty, sweet, and buttery desserts, you’re in for a treat. This Gooey Lemon Butter Cake combines a tangy lemon cake base with a luscious, creamy topping that melts in your mouth. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging at home, this cake is a showstopper that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and learn how to create this decadent dessert!
Introduction
Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is a dessert that combines the bold, bright flavors of lemon with a rich, buttery texture. Inspired by the classic St. Louis butter cake, this lemony twist is perfect for those who love a balance of tang and sweetness. Its moist, gooey filling pairs beautifully with the slightly dense cake base, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether served as a dessert centerpiece or an afternoon pick-me-up, this cake is guaranteed to please every palate.
Ingredients
To make this indulgent Gooey Lemon Butter Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Lemon Cake:
- 1 lemon cake mix
- 1½ teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 16 ounces powdered sugar
These simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Make Gooey Lemon Butter Cake
Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake the perfect Gooey Lemon Butter Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures the cake releases easily after baking.
Prepare the Cake Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, lemon zest, egg, and melted butter. Mix until well combined, forming a soft dough. Pat the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, pressing gently to create a smooth, even layer.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, lemon extract, and melted butter, beating until fully combined. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter.
Assemble the Cake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cake base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The filling should completely cover the base.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly set. Avoid overbaking; the filling should remain gooey and soft.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps in the batter.
- Zest Wisely: Use a microplane zester to finely grate the lemon zest, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath the yellow skin.
- Line the Pan: For easier cleanup and serving, line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to lift the cake out once baked.
Cooking Tips
- Customize the Lemon Flavor: For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest or a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the filling.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the dessert’s richness.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
This Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit the occasion. For a simple presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. To elevate it further, garnish with fresh lemon slices, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a drizzle of lemon glaze. Pair this cake with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a refreshing lemonade for a delightful pairing.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving of Gooey Lemon Butter Cake:
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Potassium: 85mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 40g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 2%
- Calcium: 8%
- Iron: 4%
This cake is indulgent, so enjoy it as a treat!
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Gooey Lemon Butter Cake fresh and delicious:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. The cake will remain moist and gooey, making it perfect for enjoying over several days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! While lemon cake mix enhances the citrus flavor, you can use vanilla or white cake mix for a milder taste.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. This cake can be baked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
For a less sweet version, reduce the powdered sugar by 1/4 cup in the filling. The cake will still be deliciously gooey.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Gooey Lemon Butter Cake, try these similar desserts:
Conclusion
This Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is the ultimate dessert for lemon lovers and those who crave something sweet and tangy. Its rich, buttery base and creamy, zesty filling make it a treat worth savoring. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging solo, this cake is guaranteed to bring joy. Try it today and let us know how you enjoyed it!