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Slice of peanut butter gooey butter cake.
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5 from 1 vote

Peanut Butter Gooey Butter Cake

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
1 hour
Total Time2 hours 10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12 people
Author: Eden
Cost: $15

Ingredients

  • 18 oz chocolate cake mix
  • 4 large eggs 3 and 1 divided
  • 1 cup melted unsalted butter 2 sticks divided
  • 8 oz cream cheese SUPER SOFT
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups confectioner's sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously spray or rub butter around a round cake pan or springform with nonstick spray.
  • In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 1 egg, and 1 stick of melted butter.
  • Using an electric hand-held mixer, beat the ingredients together until fully combined.
  • Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth and even base. It will have a dry crumble texture; this is the crust of the cake.
    Cake mix cookie crust.
  • In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. If you need to soften, add it to the microwave for a few seconds.
  • Add the eggs, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and 1 stick melted butter, blending until smooth. Finally, mix powdered sugar with an electric mixer until well incorporated.
  • Spread the peanut butter topping evenly over the cake base using a rubber spatula.
  • Bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes or until the center is slightly gooey. Remember, the center will never be entirely "done," and it's not supposed to be. This is a GOOEY cake; the center will not be completely set.
  • If the top of the cake is getting too brown but still needs more baking time, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent further browning while allowing the cake to finish baking. Keep an eye on it and remove the foil during the last few minutes if needed!
  • Once out of the oven, let the cake sit for a bit to allow the center to settle. Cut into slices and serve on its own, or top with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat!

Notes

FAQs for Peanut Butter Gooey Butter Cake

Can I use a different cake mix flavor? Yes! While chocolate contrasts the peanut butter, you can use yellow, vanilla, or even a peanut butter-flavored cake mix for a different twist.
How do I know when the cake is done? When finished baking, the cake should be slightly (or more) gooey in the center. The edges will be set, but the middle should still jiggle a bit—it will firm up as it cools.
Can I use natural peanut butter? For this recipe, it’s best to use creamy, processed peanut butter. Natural peanut butter may separate and affect the texture.
How do I store leftovers? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For the best gooey texture, let it come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze this cake? Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 592kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 483mg | Potassium: 256mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 48g | Vitamin A: 818IU | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 2mg