Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that channels sunshine onto your plate, look no further than Lemon Gooey Butter Cake. This irresistible treat boasts a bright, tangy lemon flavor layered upon a plush, buttery base and crowned with a sweet, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth topping. It’s got the best of all worlds: simple ingredients, easy steps, and that signature gooey texture everyone adores. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or just craving a sweet lift on an ordinary day, this Lemon Gooey Butter Cake delivers pure, blissful joy in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Lemon Gooey Butter Cake lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. Get to know why every component matters, so your cake bakes up perfectly luscious every single time.

• Lemon cake mix: Gives the base a gorgeous citrusy flavor and cheerful yellow color, making your job extra easy and delicious.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Brings deep richness to the crust and helps create that decadent, tender bite.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the crust layer and creating the smooth, silky custard-like topping.
• Cream cheese, softened: The magic behind the gooey layer, lending creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a comforting bakery aroma.
• Lemon juice: Provides a real citrus punch and keeps the gooey filling perfectly tart.
• Lemon zest: Intensifies the vibrant lemon flavor—don’t skip it if you want that fragrant zing!
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the gooey topping, while also making a dreamy dusting for serving.

How to Make Lemon Gooey Butter Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, or for even easier lifting and minimal cleanup, line it with parchment paper. This simple step guarantees your Lemon Gooey Butter Cake pops out in perfect, clean squares every time.

Step 2: Mix and Press the Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg. Stir everything together until you have a soft, pliable dough. Using your fingers or a spatula, press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure to cover the entire base for a sturdy lemony foundation.

Step 3: Beat the Gooey Layer

Grab a separate bowl for the filling. Beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy. Add in the remaining two eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and freshly grated lemon zest, mixing until everything is well combined. Next, gradually add the powdered sugar—this can get a little messy, so add it in parts and mix slowly until the batter is cloud-like and glossy, with no lumps left behind.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Pour the luscious cream cheese mixture over the pressed crust, smoothing the top so that it reaches every edge. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for golden edges and a center that’s just a bit jiggly—don’t be tempted to overbake, as that signature Lemon Gooey Butter Cake texture comes from being perfectly gooey in the middle.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely on the countertop. For the ultimate goo factor, transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least one hour before slicing. Dust the top generously with powdered sugar just before serving, and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Lemon Gooey Butter Cake

Garnishes

The classic dusting of powdered sugar is a must—it melts into the top and gives every square a whimsical, bakery-style finish. For an extra flourish, try scattered lemon zest, a curl of whipped cream, or even a few fresh berries.

Side Dishes

If you want to turn Lemon Gooey Butter Cake into a show-stopping dessert platter, serve each piece alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a spoonful of blackberry compote, or even a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The tartness of berries is a match made in heaven for the rich, citrusy cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into bite-sized cubes for a party tray, layer chunks into a trifle with whipped cream and berries, or serve it in cupcake wrappers for an adorable brunch treat. No matter the presentation, the bold lemon flavor and dreamy texture always take center stage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Gooey Butter Cake stores beautifully in the fridge. Place slices in an airtight container and they’ll stay wonderfully fresh and gooey for up to five days. The chill actually helps maintain that signature texture and intensifies the lemony flavor.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, this cake is freezer-friendly. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen portions will keep for up to three months—just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

While Lemon Gooey Butter Cake is fantastic cold, you can let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes if you prefer a softer bite. For a just-baked feel, gently warm pieces in the microwave for about 10 seconds, being careful not to melt the creamy layer.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While lemon cake mix is what makes this a Lemon Gooey Butter Cake, you can try everything from yellow to strawberry or even orange for a fun twist. The basic method stays the same.

My cake seems too gooey in the center—did I underbake it?

The center should be just a little jiggly when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools and chills, resulting in that perfect, custard-like gooeyness everyone loves. If it seems very wet, bake it just a few minutes longer, keeping a close eye on it.

Can I add more lemon flavor?

Yes! If you crave an even bolder citrus punch, add a few drops of lemon extract to the cream cheese filling, or increase the amount of lemon zest. Taste as you go and make it your own.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese filling, it’s important to keep Lemon Gooey Butter Cake chilled. Refrigeration also helps the flavors meld and the texture set, making it easier to cut into perfect squares.

What’s the best way to cut clean squares?

Chill the cake thoroughly before slicing. Then use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut for picture-perfect slices that truly show off those gooey layers.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Gooey Butter Cake has won over everyone who’s tried it in my kitchen, and I know it’ll do the same for you. Each slice is sunshine on a plate, packed with bright lemony flavor and that melt-in-your-mouth gooeyness. Go on—give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your home!

Print