Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this red velvet gooey butter cake! Seriously, it’s the dessert of dreams. Imagine a cake that’s not just rich and decadent but also has that wonderfully creamy texture that melts in your mouth. It’s like the best of both worlds—a cake and a cheesecake had a delicious baby! This beauty is always a crowd-pleaser at parties, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why red velvet has such a special place in our hearts. The vibrant color and the lush flavor just make everything feel a little more festive, don’t you think? So, let’s dive right in and whip up this delightful treat together!
Ingredients List
For this luscious red velvet gooey butter cake, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that come together to create something magical. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package red velvet cake mix: This is the star of the show! It provides that rich color and classic flavor we all love.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Make sure it’s melted for easy mixing—it adds a lovely richness to the cake.
- 1 egg: This goes into the cake base mixture, helping to bind everything together nicely.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: You want it nice and soft so it blends smoothly. This is what gives our cake that gooey, creamy texture!
- 2 eggs: These are for the cream cheese mixture, ensuring it’s rich and velvety.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the red velvet beautifully.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese layer and gives it that dreamy, decadent taste.
Make sure you have everything ready before you start baking. I promise, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip this up!
How to Prepare Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cake
Alright, let’s get down to the fun part—making this incredible red velvet gooey butter cake! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love every step of the way. Just follow along, and you’ll have this delicious dessert ready in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps create that perfect gooey texture we’re aiming for. So, while you’re gathering your ingredients, let that oven warm up!
Prepare the Red Velvet Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely blended together. Here’s the fun part—take that mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. You want it to be nice and even, almost like a crust. Don’t be shy; use your hands if you need to! It’ll bake up beautifully.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
Now, let’s move on to the creamy layer! In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s super smooth. This is key—if you don’t get it creamy, it might end up lumpy, and nobody wants that! Once it’s smooth, add in the 2 eggs and the teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is nicely combined. Then, gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until it’s all incorporated. Wow, the smell will be heavenly!
Combine and Bake
Now that you have both layers ready, it’s time to pour that luscious cream cheese mixture over the red velvet base. Spread it out gently so it covers everything evenly. Pop that baking dish into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You want the center to be set but still slightly gooey—trust me, that’s where the magic happens! Once it’s done, let it cool in the pan before serving. This cooling time is crucial, as it helps the cake firm up just a bit while keeping that wonderful gooeyness intact. You’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert without any fuss. Perfect for when you need a quick treat!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of red velvet and creamy cheese creates a decadent taste that’s absolutely irresistible. Each bite is a flavor explosion!
- Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is a showstopper! Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a weekend get-together, it always impresses guests.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: No need to worry about dietary restrictions—this dessert is suitable for vegetarians, making it a hit for everyone at the table.
- Gooey Perfection: The gooey center is a unique twist that makes this cake stand out from traditional desserts. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends! Here are my top tips to ensure your red velvet gooey butter cake turns out absolutely perfect every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference!
- Check for Doneness: When you’re baking, keep an eye on that timer! The cake should be set around the edges but still a little jiggle in the center. You want that gooeyness, so don’t let it get too firm!
- Cooling Time: Patience is key! Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers settle and keeps that glorious gooey texture intact.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened and your eggs are at room temperature. This makes blending so much smoother and helps achieve that creamy consistency we’re after.
- Grease the Pan Well: Don’t skip the greasing step! It helps prevent any sticking and ensures your cake comes out of the pan easily. You can use butter or cooking spray—whatever you prefer!
- Experiment with Toppings: While it’s delicious on its own, don’t be afraid to get creative! A drizzle of chocolate sauce, a sprinkle of nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream can take it to the next level!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone raving. Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Okay, let’s talk about how to keep your red velvet gooey butter cake fresh and delicious! After all, we want to savor every bite, right?
First up, if you have any leftovers (which is totally possible, but I hope you don’t!), let the cake cool completely in the baking dish. Once it’s cooled, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep that gooey goodness intact! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be sure to keep it well-covered so it doesn’t dry out.
Now, if you want to save it for later, you can freeze it! Cut the cake into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. This way, you can grab a piece whenever the craving strikes! It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label it so you don’t forget about your delicious treasure!
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat it, as it’s delightful served chilled or at room temperature. But if you prefer it warm, you can pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to give it a little warmth. Just be careful not to overdo it! You want to maintain that gooey texture, not turn it into a solid cake.
And there you have it—simple storage and reheating tips so you can enjoy this cake for days to come. Happy indulging!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s break down the nutritional info for this luscious red velvet gooey butter cake! It’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, right? Here’s what you can expect per serving (which is one delightful piece of cake):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands or ingredients you use. But hey, it’s a dessert, and we’re here for the joy it brings! Enjoy every gooey, scrumptious bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! While red velvet is a classic, you can easily swap in chocolate or vanilla cake mix for a fun twist. Just keep the other ingredients the same, and you’ll still get that delightful gooey texture!
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
No worries! You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or even a thick Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s creamy enough to maintain that luscious layer.
How do I serve this cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but if you want to elevate it, try topping it with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. It’s a showstopper no matter how you serve it!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge, and it’ll be ready to wow your guests whenever you need it!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to look for the edges to be set while the center still has a slight jiggle. It should be gooey but not liquidy! Remember, it will firm up a bit as it cools, so don’t overbake!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked this gorgeous red velvet gooey butter cake, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum delight! There are so many fun ways to elevate this dessert and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and fluffy contrast to the rich cake. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
- Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar right before serving gives your cake a beautiful, classic look. It also adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. Plus, they make it look so fancy!
- Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers out there, a warm chocolate ganache or simple chocolate sauce drizzled over the top is pure indulgence. It enhances the flavor and makes it extra decadent!
- Ice Cream: Serve a slice of warm cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melty ice cream mingling with the gooey center is absolutely dreamy!
- Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the cake beautifully.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, swirl a little cream cheese frosting on top for that classic red velvet flavor in every bite!
These serving suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect dessert experience. Whatever toppings you choose, I promise this cake will shine and leave everyone wanting more!
For more delicious recipes, check out Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or Chocolate Lava Cake!
Print
Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cake: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and decadent red velvet gooey butter cake with a creamy texture.
Ingredients
- 1 package red velvet cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix well.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 2 eggs and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the red velvet base.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set but still gooey.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Top with whipped cream or powdered sugar if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: red velvet gooey butter cake, dessert, cake, red velvet