The Best Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

If you’re in search of a dessert that’s simple to make but bursting with rich, buttery flavor, Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is the perfect choice. With its unique two-layer structure—chewy base and a smooth, custard-like filling—this recipe has earned its spot as a Southern staple. It’s a dessert you can bring to potlucks, holiday parties, or serve as a weeknight treat.

Although this cake’s roots trace back to St. Louis, Paula Deen helped bring it into the national spotlight. Her version simplifies the process using boxed cake mix and cream cheese, making it easier than ever to achieve that iconic gooey texture. Before diving in, check out why room temperature ingredients matter in baking—especially when working with butter and cream cheese—to make sure everything blends perfectly.

Craving more deliciously rich treats? You might enjoy trying pecan pie dump cake or the decadent rich and gooey caramel brownie pie as part of your dessert rotation. And for even more ideas, these easy desserts that start with cake mix will give you endless inspiration.

What Is Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake?

This dessert consists of two simple yet delicious layers. The base is made from yellow cake mix, butter, and egg, forming a soft and slightly chewy crust. The topping, made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and eggs, bakes into a rich, custardy layer that gives the cake its signature gooey texture.

Why it’s beloved:

• Requires only a few pantry staples
• Offers a delicious balance of sweet, buttery, and tangy
• Customizable with add-ins like fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips
• Easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests

Ingredients for Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Base Layer:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Gooey Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 16 oz powdered sugar

Optional Additions:

• Chopped pecans
• Lemon zest
• Chocolate chips
• Raspberry preserves

Tools You’ll Need for Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

How to Make It

Step 1: Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix the cake mix, egg, and melted butter until combined. Press the dough evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually blend in the powdered sugar. Spread the filling over the base layer.

Step 3: Bake
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The edges should be golden and set, while the center remains slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool completely before cutting. This allows the center to firm up slightly, making slicing easier. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

What Makes It So “Gooey”?

The magic of this cake lies in its partially set cream cheese layer, which stays soft in the center. Combined with the sweet cake base, this gives the dessert its unmistakable texture and appeal.

Variations to Try

Want to shake things up?

• Chocolate Gooey Cake: Use chocolate cake mix and add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the filling
• Lemon Twist: Add lemon extract and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor
• Pumpkin Spice: Blend in pumpkin puree and cinnamon for a fall version
• Nutella Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of Nutella on top and swirl before baking
• Salted Pecan: Top with chopped pecans and a sprinkle of sea salt

For inspiration, check out butterscotch heaven pie or the whimsical dr. pepper ice cream, both equally rich and crowd-pleasing.

What to Serve Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake With

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream and fresh berries
• A strong cup of coffee or cold milk
• Light desserts like easy banana pudding for contrast
• Or pair it with flan pâtissier for a creamy dessert board

Storage and Freezing

• Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Let slices thaw in the fridge or at room temperature—avoid microwaving

Health-Conscious Adjustments

• Use a gluten-free cake mix
• Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives
• Reduce powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute
• Bake in mini muffin tins for better portion control

Common Questions Answered

Why is it called “Ooey Gooey”?
Because the center stays slightly underbaked and soft, creating a gooey consistency.

Can I use other cake mix flavors?
Yes!

Do I need to refrigerate it?
Yes, since the filling contains dairy, it’s best kept chilled.

How do I know it’s baked enough?
The edges should puff and turn golden while the middle remains a bit jiggly.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a true comfort dessert—simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re baking it for the first time or tweaking it with your own twist, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Try pairing it with other favorites like churro cheesecake or the chocolate and mousse cake for a dessert spread that covers all cravings.

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