Apple Gooey Butter Cake

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Apple Gooey Butter Cake is everything you want in a dessert: rich, soft, sticky, and sweet with just the right hint of spiced fall flavor. This treat starts with a tender cake base and is topped with a gooey, buttery, apple-studded layer that melts in your mouth. Every bite combines warmth from cinnamon, brightness from fresh apples, and the indulgence of cream cheese and butter.

This dessert is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s easy to make and comes out looking like you spent hours in the kitchen, even though it all comes together with simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. The magic happens in the oven when the gooey top settles into a soft crust and sets into that iconic, almost custard-like layer that defines gooey butter cakes.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Gooey Butter Cake

This dessert hits all the right notes: sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy thanks to the cream cheese. The apples add a fresh burst that cuts through the richness, giving the cake both structure and contrast. It’s the kind of dessert that gets better with each bite, making it hard to stop at just one square. Plus, it stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

You can use any firm apple that holds its shape while baking, but Granny Smith is a top choice for this cake. Its tartness balances the sweet gooey layer perfectly. Honeycrisp or Fuji also work well if you prefer a sweeter finish. Just avoid apples that turn mushy quickly like Red Delicious.

Ingredients for the Apple Gooey Butter Cake

The beauty of this cake is how it turns basic ingredients into something extraordinary. You’ll need a mix of cake mix convenience and fresh apple goodness to bring it all together.

• Yellow cake mix – Forms the base of the cake and keeps things simple and tender.
• Eggs – Provide structure and richness to both the base and the topping.
• Butter – Melted into the base for a rich, buttery flavor.
• Cream cheese – The heart of the gooey topping, lending creaminess and slight tang.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the topping and helps it set into that gooey consistency.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances flavor throughout.
• Cinnamon – Gives that cozy, spiced note that pairs perfectly with apples.
• Chopped apples – Fresh and slightly tart, they add texture and balance.

How To Make the Apple Gooey Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Apple Topping

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the remaining eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon. Slowly mix in the powdered sugar until fully combined. Gently fold in the chopped apples.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the gooey topping over the cake base and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly. Let the cake cool completely before slicing so the top can firm up just enough.

How to Serve and Store Apple Gooey Butter Cake

This cake serves about 12 to 15 generous squares and is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. You can dust the top with extra powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce if you’re feeling fancy.

To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual pieces by wrapping them in plastic wrap and storing in a freezer-safe bag. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or warm slightly in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

What to Serve With Apple Gooey Butter Cake?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream

Classic and creamy, it cools the warm cake perfectly and enhances the apple-cinnamon flavors.

Whipped cream

Light and airy, whipped cream adds just the right lift to balance the gooey texture.

Hot apple cider

Pair your slice with a mug of spiced cider to cozy up on chilly days.

Salted caramel sauce

A drizzle of this over your slice adds depth and brings out the buttery richness.

A handful of chopped pecans

Sprinkle over the top for a little crunch and nuttiness.

A hot cup of coffee

The boldness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.

Vanilla yogurt

A surprising but satisfying combo for breakfast or brunch.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Apple Gooey Butter Cake, try these unique favorites next:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for a classic take on the gooey trend.
• Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler when you’re craving warm, juicy fruit flavors.
• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy and tropical treat.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes when you want spice, creaminess, and crunch.
• Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For to brighten up your dessert spread.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with Granny Smith or something sweeter? Any fun toppings you tried?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort bakes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite treat.

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