Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 109 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Apple Gooey Butter Cake is a luscious dessert featuring a soft buttery crust topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer and a warm, spiced apple topping. Perfect for fall or any time you’re craving a gooey, comforting treat with the seasonal flavor of cinnamon-spiced apples baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Topping

  • 2 cups apples, diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt (a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Crust Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and one large egg until a soft dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are fully combined.
  3. Form the Crust: Press the dough evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a uniform crust layer.
  4. Beat Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
  5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add two large eggs and the vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat again until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
  6. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing continuously until everything is fully combined and smooth.
  7. Assemble Cream Cheese Layer: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pressed crust layer, spreading it gently to cover.
  8. Cook Apple Topping: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly softened and coated in the sweet cinnamon sauce.
  9. Add Apple Topping: Spoon the warmed apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer in the baking pan.
  10. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The edges should be set and golden, while the center remains slightly jiggly.
  11. Cool Completely: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature to allow it to set fully for easier slicing.
  12. Serve and Store: Serve the Apple Gooey Butter Cake warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and tartness.
  • Make sure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer.
  • Do not overbake; a slightly jiggly center is ideal for gooey texture.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to keep the layers intact.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and warm slices briefly before serving for best flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: apple gooey butter cake, cream cheese dessert, autumn dessert, cinnamon apples, buttery crust, easy cake recipe, fall baking

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://bitesbyolivia.com/apple-gooey-butter-cake-recipe/