If you have a sweet tooth and a love for rich, comforting desserts, you are in for a treat with this Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. This cake is a dazzling combination of a buttery crust and a luscious, creamy pistachio filling that melts in your mouth with every bite. The vibrant green hue of pistachio pudding adds a festive touch, while the cake’s signature gooey center keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe comes together with simple pantry staples and a few key ingredients that bring big flavor and perfect texture. Each element plays a vital role in creating that iconic ooey gooey texture and rich pistachio taste.
- Yellow cake mix: Provides the buttery, slightly sweet crust foundation that holds everything together perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Adds richness and moisture for both crust and filling, making every bite decadent.
- Eggs: Help bind the crust and add fluffiness and structure to the filling.
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives the filling a creamy, smooth texture and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
- Pistachio instant pudding mix: The star flavor that infuses the whole cake with that unmistakable nutty, sweet pistachio essence.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth to the filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling, giving it that perfect buttery sweetness.
How to Make Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg until the mixture forms a smooth dough. Press this evenly into the bottom of your greased pan to create a firm buttery base that will hold all that delicious gooey filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until the mixture is silky and creamy. Then add the two eggs, pistachio instant pudding mix, and vanilla extract. Continue beating while gradually adding the powdered sugar until the filling is smooth, luscious, and full of that signature pistachio flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Pour the creamy pistachio filling right over the crust you prepared. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, making sure every corner has that rich filling. This layering is what creates the perfect textural contrast between crisp crust and ooey gooey center.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top with edges that are set but a center that remains slightly gooey—test by inserting a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean but a little moist. This step makes all the difference between a dry cake and the signature buttery gooey delight.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow your cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This resting time helps the gooey filling settle just right. Serve them at room temperature or chilled—you really can’t go wrong with either. You’ll notice the perfect blend of a tender crust paired with a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pistachio center. Pure bliss!
How to Serve Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top for an extra nutty crunch and beautiful contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate sauce can add a touch of elegance and sweetness that heightens the indulgence and makes it look irresistible for parties or special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair this luscious cake with a light side like fresh berries or a simple citrus salad to balance the richness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream also complements the creamy texture perfectly, creating a truly dreamy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual mini squares on pretty dessert plates stacked with a sprig of mint for color. You can also cut the cake into bars and wrap them in parchment paper for a lovely gift or party favor. Another idea is layering pieces in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and crushed pistachios for a visually stunning Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe-inspired parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps wonderfully at room temperature for up to two days, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week without losing that signature ooey gooey texture.
Freezing
This Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Simply cut into squares, place layers separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy warm gooey goodness, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. This brings back that fresh-baked feeling without drying the cake out.
FAQs
Can I use almond pudding instead of pistachio?
Absolutely! While pistachio pudding gives this cake its signature flavor and color, almond pudding can be a delightful alternative for a different nutty twist.
Is it necessary to use a cake mix for the crust?
Using a cake mix makes this recipe super easy and consistent, but if you want to be adventurous, you can try a homemade yellow cake batter or even a cookie crust to experiment with texture.
Why does the cake stay gooey in the center?
The combination of cream cheese, butter, and pudding creates a dense, moist filling that never fully sets in the middle, giving the cake that irresistible ooey gooey texture.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the yellow cake mix and pudding mix with gluten-free versions. Just make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.
How long should I bake for the perfect consistency?
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check around 40 minutes with a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean but with some moist crumbs to keep the gooey center.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe that makes any occasion feel special. It’s downright addictive with its buttery crust and that luscious pistachio filling that hugs every bite with sweetness and charm. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a crowd-pleaser, this recipe will win hearts and become a go-to favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy Pistachio Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, featuring a buttery cake crust layered with a smooth pistachio pudding filling. This delightful dessert boasts a soft, gooey center with just the right amount of sweetness, perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or any basic cake mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 box pistachio instant pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. In a medium bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg until well combined. Evenly press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, pistachio pudding mix, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Continue beating until everything is well combined and the filling is smooth and luscious.
- Assemble the cake: Pour the pistachio filling evenly over the prepared cake crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling smoothly, ensuring even coverage across the entire crust.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the top turns a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean but with a small amount of gooeyness, reflecting the cake’s signature soft center.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to help set the filling. Once cooled, cut into 12 equal squares. This cake can be served at room temperature or chilled, offering a moist, buttery crust paired with a rich, creamy pistachio filling.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- For easier spreading, ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing.
- If a firmer texture is preferred, chill the cake in the refrigerator before cutting and serving.
- This cake is great for make-ahead; store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute pistachio pudding mix with white chocolate or vanilla pudding mix for different flavor variations.
