Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

At its core, a Gooey Butter Cake is defined by its signature gooey filling, which rests atop a soft, buttery base. The texture is one of its most alluring attributes—imagine slicing into a cake that is both cake-like and custard-like, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that is simply irresistible. The cake typically features a two-layer structure: a rich bottom layer that serves as a cake and a top layer that resembles a creamy filling.

Discover the magical world of Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, a Southern favorite that delivers a deliciously gooey center and a buttery, nutty flavor. Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, this cake features a rich, moist base topped with a creamy pecan filling that melts in your mouth. With a simple preparation process, this dessert invites bakers of all levels to create a sweet treat that’s bound to impress and leave lasting memories. Give it a try and indulge in this delightful experience!

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Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup pecans, chopped (plus extra for topping)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

2 large eggs (additional for filling)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (additional for filling)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish or pan.

Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the 4 eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped pecans.

Spread Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the 2 additional eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until fully blended.

Pour Filling Over Batter: Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, spreading it gently with a spatula if necessary. Do not mix, as the filling is meant to sit on top.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly gooey.

Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Optionally, top with additional chopped pecans for garnish before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 12