St Louis gooey butter cake
If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting St Louis gooey butter cake, get ready for a sweet adventure that will leave you wanting more. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia, a rich blend of buttery goodness and cream cheese, with a texture that’s impossibly gooey yet perfectly sweet. Originating from the Gateway City, it is a comforting treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between. With its heavenly layers and delectable flavor, this cake is bound to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes St Louis gooey butter cake so special? For me, it’s the combination of flavors and textures. The base is slightly crispy and buttery, while the topping is an indulgent, creamy layer that melts in your mouth. It’s simple to make, and yet it feels like a special occasion dessert. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it with various flavors or toppings to suit your mood. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, enjoying it with coffee, or simply indulging on a quiet night in, this cake is pure comfort food.
Shopping List
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup almond flour (ground almonds)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 170 grams (12 tablespoons) melted butter
- 250 grams (8 ounces) cream cheese
- 3 large free-range eggs
- 550 grams (4 cups) icing/powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Appliances & Accessories
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of different sizes for mixing your ingredients.
- Whisk: An essential tool for combining dry ingredients and for mixing the cream cheese.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Perfect for baking and serving your gooey butter cake.
- Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring everything is well-mixed.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfecting this recipe.
St Louis gooey butter cake: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
Step 2: Make the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. Next, add the 2 large eggs and melted butter to the dry mixture. Stir until everything is combined and forms a soft, sticky dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a nice layer for your gooey topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Add in the 3 large eggs, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remember, the gooey factor is what makes this cake special, so don’t overbake!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish, and enjoy!
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- Add a swirl of fruit preserves or jam for a fruity twist.
- Incorporate chocolate chips for a rich chocolate gooey butter cake.
- Mix in some crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Try different extracts, like lemon or coconut, for a unique flavor profile.
Missteps & Fixes
Even the best bakers encounter a few bumps along the way. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:
- Too Dry or Crumbly Base: Ensure your butter is fully melted and thoroughly mixed with the dry ingredients. If it seems too dry, a little extra melted butter can help.
- Overbaked Cake: The gooey butter cake should have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven. If you overbake, it may lose its signature gooey texture.
- Uneven Baking: Make sure to rotate your baking dish halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
Prep Ahead & Store
This cake can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze: You can freeze individual pieces. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They will keep for up to three months.
- Reheat: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my gooey butter cake is too gooey?
If your cake is overly gooey, it may have been underbaked. Make sure to check for doneness by looking for a slightly jiggly center and golden edges. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can bake it a bit longer, but keep a close eye on it to avoid drying it out.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour gives the best results, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if needed. Just be sure to follow guidelines for substituting in gluten-free baking.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing the cake?
For clean slices, ensure the cake is completely cooled before cutting. Use a sharp knife, and you can even run it under hot water and then dry it before slicing for the best results.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! To double the recipe, simply increase all ingredients proportionally and use a larger baking dish. Keep in mind that baking time may vary, so check for doneness as you would with the original recipe.
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In Closing
Baking St Louis gooey butter cake is not just about the end product; it’s about the joy and love that goes into creating something delicious. This cake embodies the spirit of comfort and indulgence, making it a favorite for gatherings and quiet nights alike. With its rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your collection. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat! Enjoy every gooey bite!
St Louis gooey butter cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. Next, add the 2 large eggs and melted butter to the dry mixture. Stir until everything is combined and forms a soft, sticky dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a nice layer for your gooey topping.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Add in the 3 large eggs, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remember, the gooey factor is what makes this cake special, so don’t overbake!
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish, and enjoy!
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.
- For clean cuts, ensure the cake is completely cooled before slicing.
