Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Recipe

Have you ever visited Outback Steakhouse just for the dessert? I know I have! Their warm, gooey butter cake is legendary. It is rich, sweet, and feels like a warm hug.

Everyone asks for the Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Recipe after one bite. Today, I am sharing my secret version with you. You can make this famous treat right in your own kitchen. It is easier than you think!

What Makes This Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Special

This cake is not your average sponge cake. It has a unique, dense texture that melts in your mouth. The middle stays slightly soft and buttery.

It features a sugary crust on the outside that crunches perfectly. When you top it with cold vanilla ice cream, it creates magic. It is the perfect balance of salt, sugar, and cream. Your family will think a professional chef baked it!

Equipment List

• 9-inch springform pan or cake pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Small saucepan
• Wire cooling rack

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Recipe
• Servings: 8 people
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Recipe

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow Cake Mix
• 1 large egg
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

For the Creamy Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

For the Topping:

• Whipped cream (optional)
• Fresh strawberries
• Vanilla bean ice cream

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to $325^\circ F$. Grease your cake pan very well with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the sticky sugar from clinging to the sides.

2. Mix the Cake Base

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, one egg, and melted butter. Use a spoon to mix until it forms a thick dough. It should feel like cookie dough.

3. Press Into Pan

Press the dough into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use your fingers to spread it evenly. Make sure it covers the entire bottom surface firmly.

4. Beat the Cream Cheese

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Use an electric mixer to remove all lumps. This ensures a silky, creamy texture for the filling.

5. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add two eggs and the vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix on medium speed until combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula often.

6. Incorporate Butter and Sugar

Pour in the remaining melted butter and the powdered sugar. Mix slowly at first so the sugar doesn’t fly out. Beat until the mixture is completely smooth.

7. Pour and Bake

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base in the pan. Spread it out with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the edges are golden.

8. Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven. The center should still jiggle slightly. Let it cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing it.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Don’t Overbake: The center must remain a bit soft to get that “ooey-gooey” effect.
• Room Temp Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is very soft before mixing to avoid tiny white lumps.
• Add Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Salted Butter: If you love a salty-sweet combo, use salted butter instead of unsalted.
• Chocolate Version: Use a chocolate cake mix base for a rich “Death by Chocolate” butter cake.
• Use High-Quality Vanilla: Real vanilla bean paste makes the flavor much deeper and more authentic.

Interesting Facts About Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake

Did you know the “Butter Cake” style actually originated in St. Louis? It was created by accident when a baker used the wrong proportions of ingredients.

Outback Steakhouse popularized their version by adding a signature whipped cream and strawberry garnish.

It is now one of the most searched restaurant recipes online. People love it because it bridges the gap between a cheesecake and a traditional pound cake.

Perfect Dishes to Serve With Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake

Since this cake is very rich, it pairs best with tart or light items. Fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries cut through the sweetness beautifully. A hot cup of black coffee or espresso is the classic pairing.

For a true “Outback” experience, serve it after a savory steak dinner with baked potatoes. You can also drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top for extra decadence.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Room Temperature: You can keep the cake on the counter for up to two days.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
• Microwave: To reheat, zap a slice for 15-20 seconds to make the center gooey again.
• Oven Reheating: Warm it at $300^\circ F$ for 5 minutes to keep the crust crispy.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	13g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	310mg
Total Carbohydrates	58g
Sugars	42g
Protein	4g

Health Benefits

While this is a decadent treat, it does offer some simple comforts. Using real eggs provides a small boost of protein and essential vitamins like B12.

Cream cheese contains Vitamin A, which is good for your vision and skin health. Sharing a homemade dessert also improves your mental well-being and strengthens social bonds with friends. Remember, enjoying a treat in moderation is part of a balanced and happy lifestyle.

FAQs about Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Recipe

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can definitely swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version. Most gluten-free mixes work perfectly with this ratio of butter and eggs. Just check the texture of the dough.

Why did my butter cake sink in the middle?

A slight sink in the center is actually normal for this style of cake! It creates that gooey, custard-like texture. However, if it sinks too much, you might have opened the oven door too early.

How do I know when the cake is finished baking?

The edges should be firm and a deep golden brown color. The center should still have a slight “wobble” when you gently shake the pan. It firms up as it cools down.

Do I have to use a springform pan?

You don’t have to, but it makes serving much easier. If you use a regular cake pan, line it with parchment paper. Leave “wings” of paper over the sides to lift the cake out.

Final Thoughts

Making the Outback Steakhouse Butter Cake Recipe at home is a total game-changer. It is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert for birthdays or holidays.

The smell of sweet butter filling your kitchen is simply wonderful. I hope you enjoy every sugary, buttery bite of this treat. Happy baking, and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!