Imagine combining the rich, buttery flavors of St. Louis’s iconic Gooey Butter Cake with the cool, creamy decadence of homemade ice cream. The result? Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream—a dessert so indulgent it will have your taste buds dancing with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a busy parent looking for an easy dessert to impress, this no-churn recipe will transport you to dessert heaven.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything from the history of Gooey Butter Cake to step-by-step instructions for creating your own luscious, creamy frozen treat at home. So, let’s dive in and get started!
What is Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream?
Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream is a rich, decadent dessert that merges the comforting sweetness of gooey butter cake with the creamy texture of ice cream. The concept originated as a playful twist on St. Louis’s beloved Gooey Butter Cake, turning the traditional baked treat into a frozen masterpiece.
Imagine velvety cake pieces swirled into a base of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. This dessert is a nod to the buttery richness of its namesake while offering the refreshing coolness of ice cream. Furthermore, its creamy texture and versatile flavor make it a standout dessert for any occasion.
The Origins of Gooey Butter Cake and Its Ice Cream Twist
The classic Gooey Butter Cake hails from St. Louis, Missouri, where it’s been a favorite since the 1930s. According to local lore, this dessert was created by accident when a baker mixed up the proportions of butter and flour in a cake recipe. The result? A dense, buttery delight that became an instant hit.
Over the years, the dessert has inspired countless variations, including this ice cream version. As the popularity of Gooey Butter Cake grew, creative minds began incorporating its flavors into other desserts, like ice cream. Combining the cake with a creamy ice cream base adds a modern twist to the cherished recipe, making it even more irresistible.
Fun Fact: You can learn about more Southern-inspired desserts like Gooey Butter Cake by exploring recipes for treats such as the Million Dollar Pound Cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this recipe, and here are just a few:
- No-Churn Simplicity: You don’t need an ice cream maker for this recipe—just a few simple tools and ingredients.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk ensures a luxurious texture.
- Customizable: Add toppings like caramel drizzle, crushed cookies, or nuts for extra flair.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to please.
In addition, the recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. Even if you’ve never made ice cream before, you’ll find this process surprisingly simple.
Ingredients for Homemade Butter Cake Ice Cream
Before we dive into the recipe, gather these ingredients:
Essential Base Ingredients for the Ice Cream Recipe
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Making Gooey Butter Cake Chunks for the Ice Cream
- 1 box yellow cake mix (heat-treated for safety)
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 egg
- Powdered sugar (for topping, optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- Crushed graham crackers or cookies for texture
- Chocolate chips or sprinkles for a colorful twist
Step 1: Preparing the Gooey Butter Cake Chunks
To begin, prepare the gooey butter cake chunks that will serve as the star ingredient in this recipe.
- Heat Treat the Cake Mix: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cake mix on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes to eliminate any bacteria. Let it cool completely.
- Make the Cake Batter: Combine the heat-treated cake mix, melted butter, and egg in a bowl. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Bake: Press the dough into a greased 8×8-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool, then cut it into bite-sized chunks.
At this stage, you’ll already notice the rich, buttery aroma that makes Gooey Butter Cake so special.
Step 2: Whipping Up the Ice Cream Base
Next, it’s time to create the luscious ice cream base that ties the entire dessert together.
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using a hand or stand mixer. Cold cream works best, so keep it refrigerated until ready to use.
- Blend the Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the cream cheese until fully combined. Then gently fold this mixture into the whipped cream.
As you mix, you’ll notice how the ingredients come together to create a velvety, smooth consistency that’s perfect for freezing.
Step 3: Adding the Gooey Butter Cake Chunks
Now comes the fun part—folding in the gooey butter cake chunks!
- Gently mix the cake chunks into the ice cream base, being careful not to overmix to preserve the whipped texture.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Pro Tip: For a marbled effect, drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce on top before freezing. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dessert visually appealing.
Step 4: Freezing and Serving
Finally, it’s time to freeze and serve your delicious creation.
- Freeze: Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for 4-6 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Scoop out the ice cream into bowls or cones and top with your favorite garnishes, such as whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed nuts.
Serving Idea: This dessert also pairs beautifully with pies and other frozen treats. Use it to create a Frozen Pie Dessert or serve it alongside warm baked goods.
Additionally, for those looking for new ideas, you can even experiment with using the ice cream as a topping for waffles or pancakes!
Tips for Perfect Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream
To ensure your dessert turns out perfectly, consider these tips:
- Use Full-Fat Ingredients: For the creamiest results, opt for full-fat cream cheese and heavy whipping cream.
- Chill Your Tools: Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping the cream.
- Store Properly: Keep the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Moreover, if you’re making this dessert ahead of time, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Health and Safety Considerations
Since this recipe includes raw flour, heat-treating the cake mix is crucial for eliminating bacteria. For additional guidance, learn about safe food preparation tips from the CDC.