Gooey Lemon Butter Cake – A Tangy and Sweet Treat That Melts in Your Mouth!

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, tangy, and sweet cake that’s both buttery and rich with the perfect hint of lemon. This Gooey Lemon Butter Cake brings together the magic of lemon zest, cream cheese, and powdered sugar for an unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, looking for a sweet treat to share with friends, or simply craving a burst of citrus, this cake is sure to hit the spot.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Magic of Lemon Butter Cake

This dessert is no ordinary lemon cake. The combination of a lemon cake base and a gooey, buttery topping makes this treat extra special. While it’s easy to prepare, the result is nothing short of impressive. The tartness of the lemon balances out the sweetness perfectly, and the gooey center provides a delightful contrast to the slightly crisp edges.

Why You’ll Love This Gooey Lemon Butter Cake

If you're a fan of the classic butter cake but want a fresh twist, this lemony version is a game-changer. The lemon cake mix is enhanced with fresh lemon zest for a bright citrus flavor, while the cream cheese and powdered sugar filling create a luscious and velvety layer on top. The center remains gooey, giving each bite a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the zesty cake.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 42g
• Sodium: 330mg

This cake is rich and indulgent, making it a delightful treat for any occasion!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is delightful all on its own, but you can take it to the next level with a few simple additions:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy complement to the tartness.
• For an extra citrus kick, top it with a drizzle of lemon glaze or a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing this cake with a hot cup of earl grey tea or a glass of chilled lemonade for the ultimate summer dessert experience.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store the cake: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it to extend its shelf life to a week.
• Freezing the cake: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
• Reheating: For a warm, gooey treat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Fun Fact: The Origins of Gooey Butter Cake

Gooey butter cake originated in St. Louis, Missouri, during the 1930s, when a baker accidentally used the wrong proportions of ingredients while baking a regular butter cake. What could have been a disaster turned out to be a sweet and gooey masterpiece! This lemony version takes inspiration from that original mistake and adds a refreshing citrus twist.

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Gooey Lemon Butter Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Cake:

• 1 lemon cake mix
• 1½ teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 16 ounces powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the cake base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, lemon zest, egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, lemon extract, and melted butter, beating until the mixture is fully combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until smooth.
4. Assemble the cake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cake base and spread it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, but the center should remain slightly gooey.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting it into squares. Enjoy as is, or with your favorite toppings!

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Final Thoughts

Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is the ultimate combination of tart and sweet, perfect for satisfying your lemon cravings. Its luscious, gooey center and bright lemon flavor make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you're serving it to guests or indulging in a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.