Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake: A Decadent Twist on a Classic

Get ready to experience a truly spectacular dessert: our Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake. This recipe masterfully combines a moist and soft spiced cinnamon cake layer with a luscious brown sugar filling, all crowned by an unbelievably creamy, crunchy, and gooey butter topping. It’s an unforgettable treat that will leave you craving more with every single bite.

Inspired by the legendary gooey butter cakes from St. Louis, I’ve created a version that merges their irresistible richness with the comforting warmth of classic cinnamon rolls. The result is truly SPECTACULAR! This innovative dessert features a tender, cinnamon-spiced cake batter at its base, generously filled with a sweet brown sugar cinnamon swirl, and finished with an incredibly decadent, signature gooey butter topping. Trust me, one bite of this Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake, and you might just declare it even better than traditional homemade cinnamon rolls!

This dessert masterpiece transcends the ordinary, offering a flavor and texture experience superior to any standard gooey cinnamon rolls. While you might miss the traditional roll’s yeasted dough, you gain an incredible depth of flavor and an unparalleled gooeyness. Imagine the perfect love child of a classic cinnamon roll and a decadent cheesecake – that’s precisely what this cake delivers! The bottom layer provides a golden-brown, perfectly spiced cinnamon cake, while the top layer transforms into an unbelievably rich and creamy cinnamon sugar cheesecake-like topping. It’s pure bliss in every forkful.

So, gather your ingredients, prepare your kitchen, and get ready to create something truly magical. Bust out your plastic wrap, ensure your wet ingredients are at room temperature, and fire up your stand mixer because it’s time to bake my ultimate Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake!

Explore More Decadent Cake Recipes

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts, you’ll love these other popular recipes that offer unique and delightful flavors:

• White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake: A delightful blend of sweet white chocolate and tart raspberries in a creamy cheesecake.
• Cinnamon Swirl Cake: Another comforting cinnamon-infused delight with beautiful swirls of spice throughout.
• Best Red Velvet Cake With Chocolate Frosting: A timeless classic that always impresses with its rich color and decadent chocolate frosting.

Why You Absolutely Need to Make This Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake

While there are countless reasons to whip up this incredible dessert, here are five compelling ones that make it an absolute must-try for any baking enthusiast or dessert lover:

1. Unbeatable Flavor Profile: If you adore the warm, inviting taste of cinnamon and brown sugar, this cake is your dream come true. The combination of a perfectly spiced cake base with a rich, gooey butter filling creates an explosion of comforting flavors that truly sings. It’s more than just sweet; it’s deeply satisfying and deliciously aromatic. Each layer contributes to a harmonious blend that mimics the best parts of a cinnamon roll.
2. The Ultimate Breakfast Cake (or Anytime Treat!): Who says cake can’t be for breakfast? With its delightful cinnamon roll inspiration, this gooey butter cake is perfectly acceptable for a special morning indulgence. Imagine waking up to a slice with your coffee! Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a decadent dessert after dinner, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, its versatility makes it a perfect choice for any moment.
3. Simplifying Your Calories (a Humorous Take!): Okay, let’s be honest. This is an indulgent treat! But if you’re on a calorie-counting journey, think of it this way: one generous slice of this amazing cake could very well cover your daily caloric intake. This makes counting incredibly easy – just one big, delicious entry! 😉 Enjoy it guilt-free knowing you’ve simplified your tracking.
4. Experience True “Gooey” Perfection: If you’ve never had a gooey butter cake before, prepare for a revelation. These cakes are renowned for their incredibly soft, custardy, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake is not just a great introduction to this style; it’s arguably one of the best examples you could start with, featuring that signature irresistible gooeyness thanks to its rich cream cheese layer.
5. Perfect for Special Occasions: Looking for a unique dessert that stands out? This cake is a showstopper. Its distinct appearance, with a beautiful golden base and a cracked, creamy top, combined with its extraordinary flavors, makes it ideal for holidays like Christmas morning, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with something truly special and memorable.

NOTE: If you’re seeking a more traditional take on a classic cinnamon roll dessert recipe, I highly recommend checking out my easy Cinnamon Roll Caramel Cake. It offers a different, yet equally delicious, experience with a luscious caramel twist.

Essential Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake

Crafting the perfect Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake starts with understanding your ingredients. While they might seem simple, paying attention to their quality and preparation makes all the difference. For a detailed list of all quantities, please check out the complete recipe card below!

• Large Eggs: Always ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to incorporate more evenly into the batter, creating a smoother emulsion and a more uniform cake texture. Cold eggs can cause the batter to curdle and result in a denser cake.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cake layer, providing structure without being too heavy. While you can experiment with gluten-free substitutes, remember that the final texture may vary significantly. Crucially, avoid substituting cake flour, as its lower protein content will alter the cake’s delicate structure and desired gooiness.
• Cinnamon Sugar (specifically brown sugar cinnamon): This blend is key for the rich, warm, and aromatic filling. Dark brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor and extra moisture, perfectly complementing the spicy kick of cinnamon. It creates that classic cinnamon roll essence within the cake.
• Sour Cream: For maximum moisture, tenderness, and a slight tangy counterpoint to the sweetness, always opt for full-fat sour cream. Its acidity helps tenderize the cake crumb, contributing significantly to the cake’s luxurious and moist texture. Ensure it’s also at room temperature.
• Powdered Sugar: This is a secret weapon for two reasons: it forms the base of our incredibly smooth and creamy gooey butter topping, and a final dusting on top adds an elegant finish and extra touch of sweetness. Sift it thoroughly for the best, lump-free results and a truly velvety texture.
• Cream Cheese: The star of our gooey butter layer, cream cheese provides that characteristic tangy richness, velvety texture, and helps create the signature “goo” in the cake. Make absolutely sure it’s softened to room temperature for a lump-free mixture that creams beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened unsalted butter is critical for both the cake batter and the gooey topping. Leave it out in a warm place in your house well in advance to achieve that perfect “softened, but not melted” consistency, which is essential for creaming properly with sugar and achieving a tender, flavorful crumb.

How to Make this Dreamy Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake

Embark on a delightful baking journey with these comprehensive steps. For the absolute FULL information and precise instructions, including ingredient quantities, make sure to scroll down to the detailed recipe card below! These are key steps to guide you through the creation of your Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake:

• Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease a 9-inch cake pan or springform pan with baking spray (like Pam’s Baking Spray). Then, line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper for effortless removal, and lightly spray the sides again. Set it aside for later.
• Craft the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and ¼ cup of packed dark brown sugar until they are perfectly combined. This aromatic mixture will form the core of our “cinnamon roll” flavor and add a beautiful swirl. Set this delightful filling aside.
• Begin the Cake Batter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer in a large bowl), cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is visibly light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl periodically to ensure even mixing.
• Incorporate Wet Ingredients: With the mixer still on medium speed, add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well for about 30 seconds after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula after each egg to ensure full incorporation and prevent curdling. Then, add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and ⅔ cup of full-fat sour cream, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, thoroughly whisk together 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour. Proper whisking here ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout the cake.
• Fold in Dry to Wet: With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix only until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing the flour can develop the gluten too much, leading to a tough and dry cake, which we definitely want to avoid for a tender crumb.
• Layer the Cake and Filling: Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into your greased and lined cake pan. Use the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula to spread it smoothly across the bottom. Then, generously and evenly sprinkle your reserved brown sugar cinnamon filling over the batter, making sure to leave a small margin along the edges to prevent it from burning.
• Prepare the Cream Cheese Gooey Layer: In another large bowl, use a hand mixer on medium-high speed to beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy, with no lumps. Add 1 large egg and beat on high for 30 seconds, again scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is well combined.
• Finish the Gooey Topping: Add an additional 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture. Then, gradually incorporate 2 ¾ cups of powdered sugar, adding about 1 cup at a time and mixing for 15-20 seconds after each addition until the mixture is incredibly smooth, thick, and lump-free.
• Assemble the Cake: Carefully pour this luscious cream cheese mixture on top of the cinnamon cake batter and brown sugar filling in the pan. Use a small offset spatula to spread it into an even, smooth layer, ensuring it covers the cinnamon filling completely.
• Bake to Perfection: Place the cake in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are beautifully golden brown, and the center of the gooey layer still has a slight jiggly quality. Don’t worry, this jiggly center is exactly what gives gooey butter cake its signature texture; it will firm up more as it cools. You may also notice some delightful cracks on the surface of the topping, which is completely normal.
• Cool and Chill: When the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes on a wire rack at room temperature. This initial cooling helps stabilize the cake’s structure. Then, for the most crucial step, transfer the cake (still in its pan) to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This extended chilling period is absolutely essential for the cream cheese layer to fully set and firm up, ensuring perfect, clean slices.
• Serve and Enjoy: Just before serving, carefully remove the cake from the springform pan. For an elegant finish and an added touch of sweetness, dust the cooled cake generously with extra powdered sugar. Slice, serve, and savor every indulgent bite of your homemade Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake!

Expert Baking Tips for a Flawless Gooey Butter Cake

These foundational baking tips are ones I emphasize constantly, as they are crucial for consistent success. Integrate them into your routine, and you’ll notice a remarkable difference in your baking results, especially with a layered and textured cake like this Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake!

• Read the Recipe Thoroughly: Before you even pull out your first ingredient, read the entire recipe from start to finish. This helps you understand the process, anticipate steps, and ensures you have all necessary items ready and can avoid any surprises during the baking process.
• Achieve Room Temperature Ingredients: This cannot be stressed enough for cakes! Butter, eggs, and sour cream at room temperature emulsify better, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a lighter, airier cake texture. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter and a denser, less tender cake. Plan ahead and take them out of the fridge at least 30-60 minutes before you start.
• Measure Precisely, Especially Flour: Baking is a science where precision matters. Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate flour measurement (if available) or the “spoon and level” method: spoon flour into your measuring cup, then level it off with a straight edge. Scooping directly from the bag can compact the flour, adding too much and leading to a dry, dense cake.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough, chewy cake rather than a tender, moist one. Stop mixing as soon as you see no more streaks of dry flour.
• Evenly Spread Batter and Layers: Take the time to spread the cake batter and the gooey topping evenly in the pan. This ensures uniform baking, consistent texture, and a beautiful presentation, preventing unevenly cooked or undercooked sections in your homemade gooey butter cake.
• Ensure Even Distribution of Fillings: When sprinkling the cinnamon-brown sugar filling, distribute it as evenly as possible over the cake batter. This guarantees that every bite of your Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake has that perfect burst of spiced sweetness and a consistent flavor profile throughout.
• Monitor Baking Progress Closely: Ovens can vary significantly, so the baking time provided is often a guideline. Look for visual cues: the edges should be golden brown, the center of the cake layer should pass a toothpick test (with a few moist crumbs), and the gooey top layer will still have a slight jiggly quality.
• Cool Before Chilling: While it’s tempting to rush, allowing the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes on a wire rack at room temperature before refrigerating helps it stabilize and prevents cracking due to a sudden temperature change. The subsequent chilling period is absolutely essential for the gooey layer to firm up properly for perfect slicing.
• Slice Carefully and Dust: Once fully chilled and set, use a sharp knife (warmed with hot water and wiped clean between slices for extra neatness) to slice your cake for clean, beautiful edges. A final dusting of powdered sugar adds a professional touch, enhances its visual appeal, and provides an additional layer of sweetness.
• Patience is a Virtue: Remember, baking should be an enjoyable and therapeutic experience! This is a fun new recipe, and taking your time with each step will not only result in a better, more delicious cake but also a more rewarding and stress-free experience. Don’t rush the steps, especially the crucial cooling and chilling phases.

What I Used To Make This Recipe: Essential Baking Tools

Having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable, leading to better results and a perfect Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake every time. Here are the essential items I recommend for making this incredible dessert:

• 9-inch Round Springform Cake Pan: This is crucial for achieving that signature round cake shape and for easy removal of your delicate gooey butter cake without damaging its layers. Its removable sides are a game-changer for layered desserts. Ensure it’s properly greased and lined with parchment paper.
• Mixing Bowls (various sizes): You’ll need at least three separate mixing bowls: one for wet ingredients, one for dry ingredients, and a larger one for mixing the cream cheese topping. This keeps your prep organized, prevents cross-contamination of ingredients, and streamlines the baking process.
• Rubber Spatula: An indispensable tool for any baker. It’s essential for thoroughly scraping down the sides and bottom of your mixing bowls, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated without overmixing. It’s also perfect for gently folding dry ingredients into wet ones.
• Sifter: Sifting your dry ingredients (especially flour and powdered sugar) is key for a light, airy cake and a smooth, lump-free topping. It helps aerate the flour and ensures baking powder and cinnamon are evenly distributed.
• Parchment Paper: An invaluable aid for preventing sticking. Lining the bottom of your cake pan with a parchment paper circle ensures your cake will release perfectly every time, making for a beautiful, intact dessert without sticking to the pan.
• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Essential for creaming butter and sugar to airy perfection, as well as beating the cream cheese to a smooth, lump-free consistency for the gooey topping. A stand mixer offers hands-free convenience, while a powerful hand mixer is perfectly adequate for this recipe.
• Rubber Spatula: As mentioned above, a versatile tool for both folding and scraping bowls.
• Small Offset Spatula: This specialized spatula is ideal for smoothly and evenly spreading batters and toppings in a pan. Its angled blade makes it easy to reach all corners and create a professional, flat finish on your cake layers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake

Here are some common questions you might have while preparing this delicious Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake, along with detailed answers to help you succeed:

Q: Can I substitute vegetable oil with another type of oil?
A: Yes, you certainly can! Vegetable oil provides moisture without adding a distinct flavor. Good alternatives include melted coconut oil (if you enjoy a subtle hint of coconut flavor), canola oil, or even melted unsalted butter. Just ensure you use them in equal amounts as specified in the recipe. Each will impart a slightly different nuance to the cake, but all will work well for moistness.

Q: How can I tell if the cake is done baking?
A: For this gooey butter cake, don’t expect a completely firm center like a traditional cake. The edges of the cake layer should be beautifully golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer (not the gooey topping) should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. The center of the gooey layer will still be slightly jiggly when gently shaken, which is exactly what we want for that signature “gooey” texture. It will firm up considerably as it cools and chills in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use a different size of cake pan?
A: You can, but it requires careful adjustment of baking time and may alter the cake’s thickness. A smaller pan (e.g., an 8-inch round) will result in a thicker cake, likely needing a longer baking time (start checking 10-15 minutes earlier). Conversely, a larger pan (e.g., a 10-inch round or a 9×13 inch rectangular pan) will yield a thinner cake and might require a shorter baking time (reduce by 5-10 minutes). Always keep a close eye on the cake and use the visual cues for doneness, and remember a rectangular pan will have a different cake-to-gooey ratio.

Q: How long should I let the cake cool before refrigerating?
A: It’s best to allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This initial cooling helps stabilize the cake’s structure and allows it to slightly pull away from the sides of the pan. After this short cooling period, transfer the cake (still in its pan) to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This extended chilling period is absolutely crucial for the cream cheese layer to fully set and achieve its perfect gooey, yet firm, consistency for easy and clean slicing.

Storing and Freezing Your Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake

Proper storage ensures your delicious Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake stays fresh and maintains its amazing texture for longer. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack to room temperature. This is essential to prevent condensation when storing, which can make the cake soggy. After cooling, transfer the cake to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with several layers of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to protect it from air and odors. Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For the best flavor and texture, let individual slices come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Freezing – Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake for Later

This Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep, unexpected guests, or saving for future cravings! Ensure the cake has cooled completely to room temperature before freezing. You can freeze it whole, in large portions, or as individual slices. To prevent freezer burn, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container. Label the package with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bring it to room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave or a low oven (around 250°F / 120°C) for 10-15 minutes for that freshly baked taste and gooey texture. A quick dusting of powdered sugar after thawing will refresh its appearance and add a final touch of sweetness.

More Delicious Cake & Dessert Inspiration

If you loved this gooey butter cake, be sure to explore more of our delightful recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth and expand your baking repertoire:

• Blueberry Coffee Cake With Sour Cream Recipe: A moist and flavorful classic, studded with blueberries and a delicious streusel topping, perfect for any morning or brunch.
• Best Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe: Little bites of heaven, combining the creamy tang of cheesecake with the comforting chewiness of a cookie, bursting with strawberry flavor.
• The Best Blueberry Buckle Cake: A delightful cake generously studded with fresh blueberries and topped with a buttery, sweet, and irresistible crumbly streusel.

We hope you enjoy baking and sharing this incredible Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake! Remember to LEAVE A 5 STAR REVIEW AND A COMMENT if you love the recipe or have any questions. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps others discover these delicious treats. Follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok for more fun, delicious baking content, and behind-the-scenes glimpses!

Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake

Molly Murphy

Moist and soft spiced cinnamon cake layer, with a brown sugar filling, then topped with a creamy, crunchy gooey butter filling.

5 from 11 votes

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Course
Dessert

Cuisine
Cake

Servings

12
Slices

Ingredients

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar packed

For The Cake

• ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract