Butter cake outback is one of those desserts people don’t just like—they crave it. If you’ve ever finished a steak at Outback Steakhouse and thought, “I’ll just have a bite of dessert”, you already know how this story ends. That warm, rich, gooey-centered butter cake, topped with strawberries and whipped cream, has built a loyal fan base over the years.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Butter Cake Outback: what it is, why it’s so popular, how much it costs, how many calories it has, and—most importantly—how to make a copycat Outback butter cake at home that tastes restaurant-quality. This article combines competitor insights, missing SEO gaps, baking science, and real-world tips into one fully optimized, human-friendly resource.
What Is Butter Cake at Outback Steakhouse?
Outback Steakhouse butter cake is a rich, indulgent dessert made with a buttery cake base and a cream cheese–based gooey layer on top. Unlike a regular butter cake that bakes firm throughout, this dessert is designed to stay soft and slightly underbaked in the center.
What makes it special is the contrast in texture. The bottom layer is dense and buttery, while the top layer melts into a smooth, custard-like finish. It’s usually served warm with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, sometimes paired with vanilla ice cream.
Many people confuse it with classic gooey butter cake, but Outback’s version is more restaurant-polished, richer, and less crumbly.
Why Butter Cake Outback Is So Popular
Butter Cake Outback isn’t just popular because it’s sweet. It taps into comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence—three things that make desserts unforgettable.
Here’s why it stands out:
- It’s served warm, which enhances butter and vanilla flavors
- The gooey center feels luxurious and indulgent
- It balances sweetness with richness, not just sugar
- It feels like a “reward dessert” after a savory meal
From an SEO and psychology standpoint, this dessert triggers high-intent searches. People don’t casually look up “butter cake outback.” They’re either trying to recreate it, check calories, or decide if it’s worth the splurge.
“The best desserts aren’t complicated—they’re comforting.”
— Pastry chef insight from restaurant dessert trends
Butter Cake Outback Ingredients Overview
One reason this dessert is so beloved is that the ingredients are simple but perfectly balanced.
Base Cake Layer Ingredients
The base gives structure and buttery depth. It typically includes:
- Yellow cake mix
- Butter (½ cup / 1 stick)
- 2 large eggs
This layer is pressed into the pan rather than poured, which keeps it dense and rich.
Gooey Cream Cheese Layer Ingredients
This is where the magic happens:
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 3¾ cups powdered sugar
- Melted butter
This mixture bakes into a soft, gooey topping instead of a firm cake layer.
Optional Toppings (Outback Style)
Outback keeps it classic:
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
These toppings cut through the richness and add freshness.
How to Make Butter Cake Outback at Home (Copycat Recipe)
This copycat Outback butter cake recipe is designed to give you the same texture and flavor—without guesswork.
Preparation & Tools Needed
Before you start, gather:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix yellow cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until thick. Press firmly into the baking pan.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs, powdered sugar, and butter.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the base.
- Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes.
- Remove when the center still jiggles slightly.
Baking Time & Temperature Explained
The most common mistake is overbaking. Butter cake outback should not look fully set in the middle.
| Baking Factor | Ideal Setting |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Center Texture | Soft, slightly jiggly |
| Cooling Time | 20 minutes |
If the top turns golden but the center moves like custard, you’ve done it right.
How to Get the Gooey Center Like Outback
This section is where most recipes fail—and where you can win.
The gooey texture comes from:
- High sugar content in the top layer
- Cream cheese retaining moisture
- Removing the cake before full set
Common Mistakes That Ruin Gooey Texture
- Baking until fully firm
- Using low-fat cream cheese
- Skipping the cooling period
Let the cake rest. As it cools, the structure sets without drying out.
Butter Cake Outback Calories, Price & Nutrition Facts
Many people search for Butter Cake Outback calories before ordering—or making it.
Butter Cake Outback Price
On average, Butter Cake Outback costs $8.79, depending on location. That places it among the more premium steakhouse desserts.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 940 kcal |
| Fat | 53g |
| Saturated Fat | 32g |
| Cholesterol | 200mg |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Carbohydrates | 110g |
| Sugar | 76g |
| Protein | 9g |
Is Butter Cake Outback‘s Worth the Calories?
For most fans, the answer is yes—but occasionally. This is a treat dessert, not an everyday sweet.
Butter Cake vs Gooey Butter Cake – Are They the Same?
They’re related, but not identical.
| Feature | Butter Cake Outback | Gooey Butter Cake |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Creamy & custard-like | Dense & crumbly |
| Sweetness | Balanced | Very sweet |
| Origin | Steakhouse dessert | St. Louis classic |
| Toppings | Strawberries & cream | Usually plain |
Outback’s version is more refined and restaurant-styled.
Expert Baking Tips for First-Time Bakers
If this is your first time making butter cake:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese
- Measure powdered sugar carefully
- Don’t rush cooling time
- Always bake on the middle rack
These small details make a huge difference.
Butter Cake Outback‘s Variations You Can Try
Once you master the base recipe, try these:
Chocolate Butter Cake
Add cocoa powder to the base and drizzle chocolate sauce.
Gluten-Free Butter Cake
Use gluten-free yellow cake mix and verify powdered sugar is gluten-free.
Mini Butter Cakes
Bake in ramekins for individual portions—great for parties.
How to Serve Butter Cake Outback‘s Style
Butter cake is best served:
- Slightly warm
- With cold whipped cream
- With fresh strawberries or vanilla ice cream
The hot-cold contrast enhances flavor and texture.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Butter Cake
Refrigeration
Keeps well for 4–5 days when covered.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze butter cake for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the oven or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
READ MORE >>> Fried Chicken Breast Recipe – Crispy, Juicy & Easy at Home
Common Butter Cake Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these at all costs:
- Overbaking
- Using margarine instead of butter
- Cutting while hot
- Skipping parchment paper
Each mistake affects texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Cake Outback
Is butter cake‘s still available at Outback?
Availability varies by location, but it’s still widely offered.
What makes Outback butter cake gooey?
The cream cheese, sugar ratio, and controlled baking time.
Can I make butter cake without cake mix?
Yes, but cake mix delivers the most authentic texture.
Is butter cake the same as cheesecake?
No. Butter cake is softer and less tangy.
How many calories are in Outback butter cake‘s?
Approximately 940 calories per serving.
Final Thoughts – Is Butter Cake Outback Worth Making at Home?
Absolutely. Making butter cake outback’s at home gives you full control over sweetness, portion size, and freshness—at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or baking for guests, this dessert delivers maximum comfort with minimal complexity.
If you love rich, buttery desserts with a gooey heart, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen.
Few desserts are this simple—and this unforgettable.
