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There’s a special kind of joy that comes from creating something extraordinary in your kitchen, and this Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream is exactly that! Picture a hot summer day, where the sun is shining and the kids are laughing outside. You step into your kitchen, and the rich aroma of brown butter fills the air, instantly transporting you to a comforting place of indulgence. Inspired by classic desserts, this ice cream marries the decadent flavors of gooey butter cake with a luscious brown butter ice cream base.

Each creamy scoop is a delightful dance of sweetness and nuttiness, bringing together the perfect balance of textures. It’s an indulgent treat that feels like a warm hug – whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to brighten up a regular evening. Trust me, once you serve this to family and friends, they’ll be raving about it long after the bowl is empty! So, grab your apron, and let’s embark on this delicious journey to satisfy that sweet tooth in the best way possible.

Why is Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream a must-try?

Irresistible Combination: This ice cream brings together two beloved desserts, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor.
Decadently Creamy: With a velvety texture and rich taste, it feels like a scoop of luxury.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a professional chef to nail this recipe; it’s accessible for all home cooks!
Versatile Variations: Whether using gluten-free cake mix or experimenting with chocolate flavors, this recipe allows for personalization.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings, and watch friends and family come back for seconds— and thirds! Grab your ingredients and get ready to impress!

Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Gooey Butter Cake
• Yellow Cake Mix – This provides the base for the gooey butter cake; a 15.25 oz box works perfectly.
• Eggs (3, divided) – Essential for structure and moisture in both the cake and the ice cream base.
• Butter (1 cup, melted) – Enriches flavor and adds creaminess to the cake.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz) – Contributes a tangy flavor and creamy texture that makes the cake irresistible.
• Powdered Sugar (16 oz) – Sweetens the gooey butter cake; half can be used for smaller batches.

For the Brown Butter Ice Cream Base
• Butter (1 cup) – This is crucial for creating that wonderful brown butter flavor.
• Heavy Cream (4 cups) – Forms the luxurious body of the ice cream; can substitute with whipping cream if needed.
• Egg Yolks (8) – Creates a rich custard base, giving the ice cream its decadence.
• Brown Sugar (1 ⅓ cups) – Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor, elevating the overall taste.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) or Vanilla Bean Paste (3 tsp) – Adds aromatic sweetness; vanilla bean paste deeply enhances flavor.
• Whole Milk (2 cups) – Lightens the texture of the ice cream, making it smooth and creamy.
• Sea Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances sweetness and balances out the flavors beautifully.

Optional Serving Suggestions
• Chocolate or Caramel Sauce – A drizzle elevates each scoop into a truly indulgent treat.

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating your new favorite dessert starring Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream!

How to Make Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake for your gooey butter cake.
Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix until just blended, then pour this into a greased 13×9-inch pan, patting it down evenly.
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Then add the remaining eggs, vanilla, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix in the powdered sugar until well combined.
Combine Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center remains gooey, and the edges are set. Let it cool completely.
Brown Butter Ice Cream Base: While the cake cools, melt the remaining butter in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Cook until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma; let it cool afterward.
Make Custard: In a pot, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, egg yolks, vanilla paste, heavy cream, whole milk, and sea salt. Whisk to combine, then heat the mixture gently to 165°F (74°C), stirring constantly.
Strain and Chill: Strain the custard through a mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any solids. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours until chilled.
Churn Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Fold in Cake: When the ice cream is almost done churning, gently fold in the crumbled gooey butter cake. Transfer the mixture into an airtight container, and freeze for approximately 4 hours before serving.

Optional: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra decadence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and butter for the best flavor; stale ingredients can affect the final taste of your Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream.
Brown Butter Carefully: Keep an eye on the butter while browning it, as it can quickly go from perfectly golden to burnt. Stir often for even browning.
Chill Your Bowl: For the ice cream to churn optimally and achieve the best texture, chill your ice cream maker bowl overnight before use.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the cake batter and cream cheese mixture, mix just until combined to keep the cake light and avoid a dense texture.
Texture Test: Listen for subtle changes when churning; once your ice cream starts to thicken, it’s time to add in the crumbled cake to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Storage Tips: After freezing, press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming, keeping your Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream silky smooth.

Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to personalize your ice cream creation with these delightful variations that will spark your culinary imagination!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to cater to those with dietary restrictions while keeping all the deliciousness intact.
Chocolate Twist: Swap out the yellow cake mix for a rich chocolate cake mix for a delightful change. This alternative adds a deeper flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the ice cream.
Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumbled cake for a crunchy texture. Each bite will bring an unexpected crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce throughout the ice cream before freezing for a gooey caramel surprise in every scoop. This twist offers an irresistible layer of sweetness that you won’t want to miss!
Fruit Infusion: Add a cup of fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or strawberries, to the ice cream base before churning. The bursts of fruity flavors will lighten up the decadent dessert, providing a refreshing contrast.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for an unexpected warmth. The heat balances the sweetness beautifully and is sure to spark conversations around the table.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk or almond milk, along with a dairy-free cake mix, to create a delicious vegan version that everyone can enjoy. Don’t forget to adjust the sugar based on your milk choice!
Coffee Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules or espresso powder into the brown butter base for a delightful caffeine kick that pairs perfectly with sweet notes of the cake.

With these exciting variations, each batch of Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream can become a unique flavor adventure that you and your loved ones will cherish!

What to Serve with Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream?

Elevate your dessert experience with delicious sides and toppings that perfectly complement the rich sweetness of this ice cream.

Chocolate Sauce: A warm drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds an irresistible layer of decadence.
Caramel Drizzle: The sweet, buttery notes of caramel contrast beautifully with the nuttiness of the brown butter ice cream. You can even make your own for an extra special touch!
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a tart balance to the sweetness, refreshing each bite. Their vibrant colors also make for a stunning presentation.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream offers a light and airy contrast, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dish while adding a touch of elegance.
Toasted Pecans: Crunchy, toasted pecans bring a satisfying texture and nutty flavor that echo the brown butter, making each spoonful even more delightful.
Coffee: Sipping a rich cup of coffee alongside your dessert creates a wonderful flavor balance; the slight bitterness enhances the sweetness of the ice cream.
Sliced Bananas: Add fresh banana slices for a comforting, nostalgic layer; their sweetness pairs beautifully with the gooey cake and creamy ice cream.
Crushed Graham Crackers: For a unique twist, sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the top for a delightful crunch that playfully mimics the texture of a crust.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips before freezing for an extra bite of sweetness and chocolate intensity with every scoop!

These pairings make your homemade Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream an unforgettable treat, perfect for any occasion.

How to Store and Freeze Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream

Fridge: Store your ice cream in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if it’s in an airtight container. However, be warned that it’s best enjoyed fresh!

Freezer: For optimal preservation, keep it in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain that creamy texture.

Reheating: If your ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly for the perfect serving.

Serving Tips: Always use a warm scoop for easy serving – simply run it under warm water for a few seconds to help create those perfect, creamy scoops of Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep! You can prepare the gooey butter cake up to 24 hours in advance; just bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The brown butter ice cream base can also be made a day ahead—simply make it and refrigerate it until you’re ready. When you’re ready to churn, just take your chilled custard out, churn it, and fold in the crumbled cake right before transferring it to your container for freezing. With these prep-ahead steps, you’ll save time and still enjoy all the decadent flavors of this delightful dessert!

Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What type of yellow cake mix should I use?
Absolutely! A standard 15.25 oz box of yellow cake mix is perfect for this recipe. The cake mix provides a sweet and moist base that complements the gooey butter cake flavors beautifully. You can also try a gluten-free cake mix if you’re catering to gluten-free needs!

How long can I store Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream?
For best results, store your ice cream in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and preserve its delicious creamy texture. Don’t forget to press a piece of parchment paper on the surface to minimize ice crystal formation!

Can I freeze the ice cream mixture before churning?
It’s best to chill the custard to make the ice cream base first before churning, rather than freezing it. Allow the custard to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate it for several hours until chilled (ideally overnight). This ensures an optimal texture!

What should I do if my brown butter burns?
If your brown butter burns, it’s essential to start over; burnt butter has a bitter taste that will affect your ice cream’s flavor. To prevent this, keep the heat on low and stir often while it cooks. Look for a golden-brown color and a nutty aroma, usually within 5 to 8 minutes.

Can I serve this recipe to guests with dairy allergies?
While Gooey Butter Cake Ice Cream features delicious creamy ingredients like cream cheese and heavy cream, it may not be suitable for dairy-allergic guests. You might create a dairy-free version by replacing butter with coconut oil, and using coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream. However, note that the taste and texture may slightly differ.

How can I ensure my ice cream is smooth and creamy?
To achieve that silky texture, it’s crucial to ensure that your ice cream mixture is properly chilled before churning. Also, don’t overmix the ice cream during churning—when it thickens just enough, fold in the crumbled cake delicately to keep it fluffy. What’s more, chilling your ice cream maker bowl overnight can drastically enhance your results!