Gooey butter cake ice cream is a decadent dessert that blends the rich, buttery flavors of a St. Louis classic with creamy, frozen goodness. This indulgent treat captures the essence of gooey butter cake, known for its dense, sweet texture, in a scoopable form. It’s a perfect choice for those craving a unique, nostalgic dessert.
Originating in St. Louis, Missouri, gooey butter cake is a beloved Midwest staple, accidentally created in the 1930s. Combining this iconic cake with ice cream creates a delightful fusion that’s gaining popularity nationwide. Its smooth texture and buttery taste make it a standout for summer gatherings or cozy nights in.
This article explores the charm of gooey butter cake ice cream, offering a simple, no-churn recipe and tips for success. You’ll learn how to recreate this indulgent treat at home with minimal effort. Whether you’re a fan of the original cake or new to its flavors, this dessert is sure to impress.
The History of Gooey Butter Cake
Gooey butter cake traces its roots to St. Louis in the 1930s, born from a baker’s mistake. A mix-up in ingredients led to a dense, buttery cake with a gooey top layer. It quickly became a local favorite, celebrated for its rich, sweet flavor.
The cake traditionally consists of a yellow cake base topped with a creamy, custard-like layer. Cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar create its signature gooey texture. This unique dessert has inspired variations, including ice cream.
Today, gooey butter cake ice cream is a modern twist on this classic. It captures the cake’s buttery essence in a frozen format, appealing to dessert lovers everywhere. Its nostalgic charm makes it a hit at bakeries and homes alike.
Why Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream Is So Popular
The popularity of gooey butter cake ice cream lies in its rich, comforting flavors. The combination of a creamy base and buttery cake chunks creates a satisfying texture. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet familiar.
This ice cream is versatile, perfect for casual snacking or special occasions. Its unique flavor profile stands out among traditional ice cream options like vanilla or chocolate. Social media showcases vibrant scoops, boosting its appeal.
Many recipes, including no-churn versions, make it accessible for home cooks. The ease of preparation and nostalgic taste have made it a favorite. It’s a treat that brings people together, evoking memories of Midwestern bakeries.
Key Ingredients for Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream
The base of this ice cream typically includes heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk for creaminess. Cream cheese adds the tangy, rich flavor reminiscent of gooey butter cake. Vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness.
For the cake component, you can use homemade or store-bought gooey butter cake. Alternatively, yellow cake mix combined with cream cheese mimics the flavor. Butter and sugar contribute to the signature gooey texture.
Optional add-ins like caramel sauce or candied lemon bits can elevate the dessert. High-quality ingredients ensure a smooth, flavorful result. Always check for allergens, as dairy and gluten are common in this recipe.
Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream Recipe
This no-churn recipe creates a creamy, decadent gooey butter cake ice cream. It serves 6-8 people and requires minimal equipment. Follow these steps for a delicious, homemade treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups gooey butter cake (crumbled, homemade or store-bought)
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (optional, for swirling)
- 1 cup yellow cake mix (heat-treated for safety)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread cake mix on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes to heat-treat. Let cool completely.
- In a small bowl, mix heat-treated cake mix, melted butter, and powdered sugar until crumbly. Set aside for later.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in crumbled gooey butter cake and half of the cake mix crumbles. If using caramel sauce, gently swirl it into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, like a loaf pan. Sprinkle remaining cake mix crumbles on top.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Freeze for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Scoop and serve directly from the freezer. Garnish with extra cake crumbles or caramel drizzle if desired.
Tips for Perfect Ice Cream
Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the richest texture. Low-fat options may result in a less creamy consistency. Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.
Heat-treat the cake mix to eliminate any bacteria, as raw flour can pose risks. Spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes. Let it cool before using.
Freeze the ice cream in a shallow container to speed up freezing. Stir the mixture gently when folding in cake pieces to maintain airiness. Serve with a warm spoon for easy scooping.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
For a twist, add a swirl of butterscotch or caramel sauce to mimic Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams’ version. Candied lemon bits can add a bright, tangy contrast. Chocolate chips or chopped nuts create extra texture.
Serve the ice cream in waffle cones or bowls for a classic experience. Pair it with fresh raspberries or a drizzle of warm caramel for added flair. It also makes a great topping for warm brownies.
For a fun presentation, layer the ice cream in mason jars with cake crumbles. This creates a parfait-style dessert perfect for parties. Garnish with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Top 5 Add-Ins for Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream
- Caramel Swirl: Adds a rich, buttery sweetness.
- Candied Lemon Bits: Provides a tangy, refreshing contrast.
- Chocolate Chips: Introduces a decadent, contrasting flavor.
- Chopped Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty depth.
- Butterscotch Sauce: Enhances the gooey, nostalgic taste.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Notes
A ½ cup serving of this ice cream contains approximately 300-350 calories. It’s high in fat (20g) and sugar (30g) due to the cream and sweetened condensed milk. Protein content is around 5g per serving.
This recipe is not gluten-free or vegan due to dairy and cake ingredients. For gluten-free versions, use gluten-free cake mix or homemade gluten-free cake. Vegan alternatives are challenging but possible with plant-based cream cheese and milk.
The table below compares standard and dietary-adjusted ingredients:
| Ingredient | Standard Option | Dietary Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Full-fat cream cheese | Gluten-free or vegan cream cheese |
| Cake Mix | Yellow cake mix | Gluten-free cake mix |
| Heavy Cream | Heavy whipping cream | Coconut cream (for vegan) |
What Is Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream?
Gooey butter cake ice cream is a frozen dessert inspired by the St. Louis classic. It combines a creamy base, often flavored with cream cheese, with chunks of gooey butter cake. The result is a rich, buttery treat with a smooth, velvety texture.
The ice cream captures the cake’s dense, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. Some recipes include caramel or butterscotch swirls for added depth. It’s a nostalgic dessert that appeals to fans of the original cake and ice cream lovers alike.
This treat is easy to make at home, especially with no-churn methods. Its indulgent flavor and versatility make it perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed alone or with toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store the ice cream in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid. It stays fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals.
Make the ice cream ahead for parties or gatherings. Prepare it up to a week in advance for best flavor. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving.
For individual servings, freeze in small containers or silicone molds. This makes portion control easy and prevents refreezing. Always scoop with a clean, warm spoon for best results.
Summary
Gooey butter cake ice cream is a rich, creamy dessert that brings the flavors of a St. Louis classic to a frozen treat. Its buttery, sweet profile and chunks of gooey cake make it irresistibly indulgent. The no-churn recipe provided is simple, requiring minimal equipment and ingredients.
This dessert’s versatility allows for creative add-ins like caramel or candied lemon. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make at home. Its creamy texture and unique flavor make it a standout for dessert lovers.
FAQ
What makes gooey butter cake ice cream unique?
It combines the rich, buttery flavors of St. Louis gooey butter cake with a creamy ice cream base. Chunks of cake add texture, and cream cheese gives a tangy kick. Optional swirls like caramel enhance the indulgence.
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, this no-churn recipe uses whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk. It requires only a freezer and a mixing bowl. The result is just as creamy and delicious.
How do I store gooey butter cake ice cream?
Store in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid for up to 2 months. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals. Let soften slightly before scooping.
Is this recipe gluten-free or vegan?
The standard recipe is not gluten-free or vegan due to dairy and cake mix. Use gluten-free cake mix or vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for alternatives. Check labels for allergens.
What toppings pair well with this ice cream?
Caramel or butterscotch sauce, fresh raspberries, or whipped cream are great choices. Chopped nuts or candied lemon bits add texture. Serve in a waffle cone for extra crunch.