Two-Ingredient Lemon Bars

That looks like a Gooey Butter Cake, a rich, custard-like dessert with a soft, buttery top and a dense, chewy crust. It’s a famous St. Louis treat — sweet, creamy, and absolutely irresistible!

Here’s a classic Gooey Butter Cake recipe you can make easily:

???? Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

For the filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 lb)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan (or line with parchment paper).

Make the crust:

In a medium bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg.

Mix until fully blended and a thick dough forms.

Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Make the filling:

In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.

Add eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.

Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth and creamy.

Assemble:

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.

Bake:

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly gooey.

Don’t overbake — the center should jiggle slightly.

Cool and serve:

Let it cool completely before cutting into squares.

Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.