Introduction
Imagine sinking your fork into a rich, warm gooey cake that combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls with the decadence of buttercream. This Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake topped with Sticky Toffee Buttercream is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Perfect for a gathering, a family dinner, or simply to treat yourself, this cake stands out for its lush texture and delightful blend of flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress!
Overview of the Recipe
What can you expect when you whip up this indulgent cake? A dense and moist cake base combined with a creamy, gooey layer and then draped in a sticky toffee glaze. Each bite is a harmonious explosion of sweet cinnamon and warm toffee, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Preparing this cake is relatively straightforward, requiring just over an hour from start to finish, with most of that time spent baking.
History and Origin
The gooey butter cake has its origins in St. Louis, Missouri, tracing back to the 1930s. It’s believed that a mistake in the baking process led to the creation of this unique dessert, which features a gooey filling that has won hearts across the nation. This Cinnamon Roll variation adds a delightful twist, merging the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the classic gooey butter cake recipe. Its cultural significance in the U.S. brings nostalgia and joy, turning every slice into a sweet memory.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
– 1 box yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: Chopped pecans for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to bring this heavenly dessert to life:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Cake Base:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until fully combined and a dough forms.
– Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
3. Prepare the Gooey Filling:
– In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth.
– Add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, and ground cinnamon. Mix until creamy and well combined.
4. Layer and Bake:
– Pour the gooey filling over the cake base, spreading it evenly.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set (slightly jiggly in the middle).
5. Make the Sticky Toffee Buttercream Flood:
– In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
– Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
– Remove from heat and add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
6. Combine and Cool:
– Once the cake has finished baking, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan, then pour the sticky toffee mixture generously over the warm cake.
– Let it soak in and cool completely.
7. Garnish and Serve:
– If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor.
– Slice into generous squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Serve this gooey butter cake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. It makes the perfect companion! Ideal for brunch, as a coffee break snack, or at the end of a cozy dinner. You can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra delightful treat!
Variations of the Recipe
– For a gluten-free version, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free mix.
– If you want to take it to the next level, add a sprinkle of chocolate chips into the gooey filling.
– For a fruity twist, consider folding some chopped apples or pears into the filling.
Health Benefits and Notes
While this cake is undeniably indulgent, it does contain ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream that provide a bit of protein. Enjoy in moderation to appreciate its rich flavors! To lighten it up, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the cake and the toffee glaze the day before, store them separately in the fridge, and combine when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What should I do if the cake is too gooey in the middle?
A: Ensure you bake it long enough until just slightly jiggly in the center but not liquid. Adjust baking time based on your oven’s accuracy.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes! Simply slice and wrap individual pieces tightly. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best results.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake with Sticky Toffee Buttercream Flood is truly a dessert lover’s dream. Rich, flavorful, and oh-so-indulgent – it’s worth every effort. Don’t hesitate to try your spin on this recipe and transform your dessert game! We’d love to hear your feedback on your creation!