Dessert

Apple Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe February 23, 2026February 23, 2026

Introduction

Apple Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a soft, buttery crust with a rich cream cheese layer and tender spiced apples on top. This comforting treat is perfect for fall gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, gooey indulgence.

A square piece of golden brown cake with a coarse texture sits at the bottom layer on a white plate with a slight pink hue. Over the cake are several slices of soft, glistening caramelized apples covered in warm, rich brown sauce that drips down the sides. On top of the apples, a smooth, round scoop of creamy white ice cream is melting slowly, creating a small white stream down the cake. The setting includes a silver fork tucked into the lower right corner and a pink textured glass filled with a drink to the left, all placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, a white bowl holds more caramelized apples. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 cups apples, diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust layer.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Step 5: Add two eggs and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat again until fluffy.
Step 6: Slowly add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture and mix until fully combined.
Step 7: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
Step 8: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for about 5–7 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 9: Spoon the cooked apple mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Step 10: Bake for 40–45 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Step 11: Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
Step 12: Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweetness, or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for a milder flavor.
For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the apple layer before baking.
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try substituting the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to enjoy the gooey texture warm again.

How to Serve

A single slice of golden-brown cake with a rough texture sits on a white plate, topped by a scoop of smooth, creamy white ice cream. On and around the cake, there are soft caramel-colored sauce and peach slices. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a white bowl with more peach slices and sauce, and a textured pink glass tumbler is partially visible on the left. A silver fork lies near the plate on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of cooked apples?

Cooking the apples first softens them and enhances their flavor, preventing excess moisture in the cake. It’s best to sauté the apples as directed for the best texture and taste.

Is it necessary to let the cake cool completely before slicing?

Yes, letting the cake cool completely helps it set properly, making it easier to slice without falling apart, while preserving the gooey texture inside.