Description
This Lemon Gooey Butter Cake is a luscious and tangy dessert combining a buttery yellow cake crust with a creamy lemon-infused cream cheese filling. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a gooey center with a flavorful zest of fresh lemon, perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the 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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust layer.
- Make the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the remaining 2 eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and well combined.
- Assemble: Pour and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Bake until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still gooey to maintain the gooey butter cake texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. Best enjoyed at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly gooey for the perfect texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant lemon flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
- This cake can be dusted with additional powdered sugar or served with fresh berries for extra flavor.
