If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness with a wonderfully gooey texture, then this Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine a tender yellow cake crust topped with a luscious, creamy lemon filling that’s bursting with fresh citrus zing and a melt-in-your-mouth finish. It’s a delightful treat that’s as simple to make as it is irresistible to eat, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a quiet moment of lemony bliss.

Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful cake, you only need a handful of familiar ingredients that come together to create magic. Each one plays a key role in delivering that iconic gooey texture and vibrant lemon flavor.

Yellow cake mix: This is your easy and sturdy base, giving the crust a tender crumb and golden color.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the crust and ensures it bakes up soft but firm enough to hold the filling.
Eggs: Vital for binding ingredients together and giving the filling a creamy, airy texture.
Cream cheese: The secret to the luscious gooey layer, providing tang and smoothness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with subtle warmth and depth.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling gently and helps it set with a silky finish.
Lemon zest: Packs a punch of bright citrus aroma and flavor throughout the cake.
Fresh lemon juice: Gives the filling its signature tartness and fresh lemony bite.

How to Make Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing the oven early ensures even baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make removing the cake easier after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and one egg. Stir until a soft dough forms. This mixture is the foundation of your cake and will bake into a tender, slightly crumbly crust. Press it evenly into the prepared baking dish to create an even layer.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy—no lumps here! Add the remaining two eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Beat until everything is fully combined and has a silky texture. This luscious filling is what makes this lemon gooey butter cake truly unforgettable.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread the creamy lemon filling evenly over the crust in the baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You want the edges to turn a beautiful golden color while the center remains set but still wonderfully gooey.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Cooling gives the filling time to firm up just the right amount while keeping that signature gooey texture. For an extra touch, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing and serving at room temperature.

How to Serve Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

The cake is beautiful on its own, but adding a few garnishes takes it to the next level. Fresh lemon slices, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a light dusting of powdered sugar adds brightness and a touch of elegance. For a pop of color and a hint of freshness, mint leaves work wonders too.

Side Dishes

This luscious lemon gooey butter cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add creaminess and cool contrast. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, complement the citrus flavor wonderfully and add a lovely burst of natural sweetness alongside each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this cake as classic squares works perfectly, but why stop there? Try turning the pieces into mini parfaits layered with whipped cream and berries, or cut into bite-sized bars for a perfect party treat. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment paper and tying with twine makes for an adorable gift or picnic snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lemon gooey butter cake stays delicious for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated. Keeping it covered helps maintain the moist, gooey texture that makes this recipe so beloved.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Frozen cake can be kept for up to 3 months without losing its luscious texture or bright flavor.

Reheating

To enjoy it warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds, or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the gooey filling intact and delightfully soft.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for this Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! While yellow cake mix works best for the texture and flavor contrast, you could experiment with white cake mix for a slightly lighter crust or even funfetti for a festive twist.

Is it okay to substitute lemon juice with lemon extract?

Fresh lemon juice provides the fresh, tangy brightness that makes this cake special, but lemon extract can be used in a pinch. Just use less extract since it’s more concentrated.

How can I tell when the cake is done baking?

The edges should be golden brown and the center set but still slightly jiggly. Overbaking will make the filling less gooey, so check at 35 minutes and adjust as needed.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified for best results.

What’s the best way to serve this cake for a crowd?

Baking it in a 9×13 pan makes it perfect for slicing into bars or squares that guests can grab easily. Offer garnishes and sides separately so everyone can customize their slice.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special but is incredibly straightforward to prepare. Its rich, buttery crust and irresistibly creamy lemon filling hit all the right notes of flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you deserve a treat, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!