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Apple Gooey Butter Cake With Cinnamon-Spiced Diced Apples Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 85 reviews

Apple Gooey Butter Cake is a decadent dessert featuring a buttery yellow cake crust topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese layer, accented by warm cinnamon-spiced sautéed apples. This cake offers a delightful combination of gooey texture and fruity flavor, perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a comforting sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Topping

  • 2 cups apples, diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt (a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Crust Dough: In a large bowl, combine 1 box of yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 egg. Mix together until a soft dough forms.
  3. Form the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a uniform crust layer.
  4. Beat Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened 8 oz cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat again until the mixture is fluffy and light.
  6. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar while mixing continuously until fully combined and smooth.
  7. Assemble Cream Cheese Layer: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pressed crust in the baking pan.
  8. Cook Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the diced apples, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch (1/8 teaspoon) of salt. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape.
  9. Add Apple Topping: Spoon the cooked apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer spreading carefully.
  10. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The cake edges should be set, but the center may remain slightly jiggly.
  11. Cool Down: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature before slicing to ensure proper set.
  12. Serve and Store: Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, covered well to maintain moisture.

Notes

  • Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor in the apple topping.
  • Allowing the cake to cool completely before slicing helps in clean cuts and better structure.
  • You can add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving for a decorative touch.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
  • For a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can add a bit more cinnamon to the apple mixture.

Keywords: Apple Gooey Butter Cake, gooey butter cake, apple dessert, cream cheese cake, cinnamon apple cake, fall dessert, easy cake recipe

Find it online: https://recipeswithria.com/apple-gooey-butter-cake-with-cinnamon-spiced-diced-apples-recipe/