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Slice of gooey butter cake with cream cheese filling and powdered sugar on a dessert plate with a fork

Paula Deen Butter Cake

This gooey Paula Deen butter cake is a Southern classic made with a buttery yellow cake base and a rich cream cheese filling. Perfectly sweet, indulgent, and easy to customize with seasonal twists. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays, potlucks, and dessert lovers everywhere!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 people
Course: Desserts, party recipes
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Cake Base
  • 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 oz
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • Gooey Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 pinch salt balances sweetness
  • 1 tsp almond extract for depth
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest for brightness

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 baking dish Glass preferred
  • 1 Mixing bowl One for crust, one for filling
  • 1 Hand mixer Or stand mixer with paddle
  • 1 Spatula For smoothing the filling

Method
 

  1. Step 1 – Prep
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
  3. Step 2 – Make the Crust
  4. In a large bowl, mix cake mix, egg, and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
  5. Step 3 – Make the Filling
  6. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, and melted butter; mix until fully combined. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until light and creamy.
  7. Step 4 – Assemble and Bake
  8. Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes. The edges should be golden; the center should still jiggle slightly.
  9. Step 5 – Cool and Serve
  10. Let cake cool completely in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar after cooling. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Letting the cake cool fully before slicing is key to achieving the perfect gooey center.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Try flavor variations like lemon, pumpkin, or red velvet for seasonal spins.