Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, melted and divided
- 3 Large Eggs, divided
- 1 package (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste
- 1 can (20-21 oz) Apple Pie Filling
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup (1 stick) of the melted butter, and 1 large egg. Mix until a dough forms, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Step 2: Carefully spread the entire can of apple pie filling in an even layer over the prepared cake mix crust in the baking dish. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apple filling.
- Step 3: In a separate large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until it is fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Beat in the remaining 2 large eggs, the 1 teaspoon of alcohol-free vanilla extract, and the remaining 1/2 cup (1 stick) of melted butter until the mixture is completely smooth and no lumps remain. This is your gooey topping layer.
- Step 5: Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the apple layer in the baking dish, spreading it gently to cover the apples. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before serving to allow the gooey center to set properly.
Notes
- Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; this helps maintain its delightful gooey texture and freshness.
- To enjoy a warm slice again, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in a low oven (275°F/135°C) for about 10-15 minutes until just warmed through.
- This cake is wonderfully rich on its own, but a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream makes it an even more decadent dessert.
- For that perfectly smooth and luscious gooey topping, ensure your cream cheese is genuinely softened to room temperature before you start beating it – it makes all the difference!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American