Your Guide to Missouri’s Gooey Butter Cake Destinations

Missouri’s gooey butter cake is a legendary treat that locals swear by and visitors travel miles to taste. This accidental creation from the 1930s features a sticky, sweet topping over a cake-like crust that melts in your mouth.

Whether you’re a St. Louis native or just passing through the Show-Me State, these spots serve up the most mouthwatering versions of this iconic dessert.

1. Gooey Louie’s, The Original Butter Cake Haven

Ever wondered where locals get their butter cake fix? Gooey Louie’s has been the go-to spot since 2006, serving nothing but these delicious squares of heaven.

What makes them special is their dedication to the classic recipe, no fancy variations, just perfectly executed traditional gooey goodness. Their cakes come in various sizes from single squares to full pans.

Many St. Louis expats have these cakes shipped across the country when homesickness strikes!

2. The Mudhouse, Springfield’s Cozy Hub For Gooey Butter Cake And Coffee

At The Mudhouse in Springfield, a slice of gooey butter cake is more than just a dessert, it’s a celebration of warmth and community. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this charming cafe offers an inviting space where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweet scent of butter cake.

The Mudhouse’s gooey butter cake is a testament to tradition, lovingly baked to achieve the perfect balance of soft, buttery richness and a slightly crisp crust. Each bite is a nostalgic nod to Missouri’s beloved dessert heritage. Pair it with one of their expertly crafted coffees, and you have a match made in culinary heaven.

3. Park Avenue Coffee, Flavor Explosion Central

Wow! Park Avenue Coffee boasts over 70 different gooey butter cake flavors, from traditional to red velvet and key lime. This coffee shop’s butter cake recipe comes directly from the owner’s mom, a true St. Louis native.

While sipping their excellent coffee, you can sample these treats in bite-sized portions. The shop’s warm brick walls and friendly baristas make it a perfect spot to linger.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try their “Mom’s Traditional” alongside one of their wild flavors like white chocolate raspberry!

4. Mississippi Mud House, Rustic Butter Cake Perfection

This charming coffee shop in Cherokee Street’s antique district serves a butter cake that’s slightly less sweet than others, letting the buttery flavor truly shine. Their rustic approach includes a thicker crust that provides delightful textural contrast.

Paired with their house-roasted coffee, it’s an afternoon treat that can’t be beaten. The cozy atmosphere with mismatched furniture and local art makes the experience even better.

Try getting there early. Their limited daily batches often sell out by lunchtime!

5. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, Cool Cake Mashup

Imagine the best of both worlds, Ted Drewes combines their famous frozen custard with chunks of gooey butter cake for a uniquely St. Louis treat! Their “Gooey Butter Concrete” blends vanilla custard with pieces of the iconic dessert.

During the summer months, this Route 66 landmark attracts lines around the block. The contrast between cold custard and sweet cake creates a texture and flavor combination that’s simply magical.

Don’t forget to try it upside down. They’ll flip your cup to prove just how thick their concretes are!

6. Russell’s On Macklind, Home Of The Refined Gooey Butter Classic

In the heart of St. Louis, Russell’s on Macklind is a haven for pastry lovers, with gooey butter cake reigning supreme. This neighborhood bakery is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and a delectable array of baked goods that keep patrons coming back for more.

Russell’s takes pride in crafting a gooey butter cake that embodies the perfect harmony of buttery sweetness and tender texture. Each slice is meticulously made, ensuring a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that captures the essence of this iconic Missouri treat.

The bakery’s commitment to quality shines through in every bite, making it a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts.

7. Bailey’s Range, Butter Cake à la Mode Revolution

Who says butter cake is just for coffee time? Bailey’s Range transforms this classic into an upscale dessert by serving warm butter cake topped with their housemade ice cream.

The restaurant’s farm-to-table approach means seasonal ingredients often find their way into both the cake and ice cream. My favorite combination is their traditional cake with bourbon vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of salted caramel.

The downtown location makes it perfect for after-dinner treats following a Cardinals game!

8. The Sweet Divine, Columbia’s Cake Champions

After winning Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, The Sweet Divine brought their expertise to creating some of the best butter cake in Colombia. Their version features a slightly caramelized top that adds complexity to the traditional recipe.

The bakery’s bright, cheerful atmosphere matches their colorful cake varieties. Students from Mizzou frequently line up for their mini-cakes, perfect for a study break treat.

If you’re feeling indulgent, try their “Divine Combo”. It’s a butter cake square topped with a swirl of their award-winning buttercream!

9. Cakes By Karen, Kansas City’s Butter Cake Pioneer

Karen brought St. Louis tradition to Kansas City, and locals couldn’t be happier! Her butter cakes feature a unique touch, a hint of cream cheese in the gooey layer that adds tangy depth to each bite.

The small bakery operates primarily on pre-orders, with limited walk-in availability. What makes her cakes special is the slightly thinner crust, allowing the gooey layer to really shine as the star.

Ask about her monthly flavor specials. Her summer strawberry version uses fresh berries from local farms!

10. Treats Unleashed, Springfield’s Pet-Friendly Cake Corner

Yes, you read that right, Treats Unleashed makes both human AND dog-friendly versions of gooey butter cake! While shopping for your furry friend, you can enjoy a traditional butter cake square for yourself.

Their human version stands out with its extra-thick powdered sugar coating and hints of almond extract. The pet version uses dog-safe ingredients that mimic the texture without harmful sweeteners.

It’s become a tradition for Springfield locals to celebrate their dogs’ birthdays with matching treats for both pet and owner!