8 Missouri Gooey Butter Cake Spots That Stick Around
A happy accident in a St. Louis bakery nearly a century ago gave rise to one of the most beloved desserts in the Midwest. Gooey butter cake, with its crackly top and soft, custard-like center, has become as much a part of Missouri identity as toasted ravioli or barbecue.
The recipe has been passed down through generations, finding its way into neighborhood bakeries, cafés, and family gatherings where a single square can satisfy any sweet craving.
Across the state, from historic city blocks to small-town kitchens, bakers continue to refine and reimagine this indulgent classic while holding on to the nostalgic flavors that made it famous.
1. Blue Owl Restaurant & Bakery – Kimmswick
Country charm surrounds this destination-worthy bakery famous for its Levee High Apple Pie. Their gooey butter cake holds its own among the award-winning offerings, bringing visitors from across the region.
Located in historic Kimmswick, Blue Owl creates a traditional version that’s particularly moist and flavorful. The quaint setting enhances the experience of enjoying this quintessential Missouri treat. Many visitors make special trips just for their perfectly executed recipe.
2. Park Avenue Coffee – St. Louis
Coffee shop charm meets butter cake brilliance at this local favorite. Park Avenue boasts an impressive 76 flavors of gooey butter cake, including seasonal specialties that keep customers coming back.
Using a treasured family recipe passed down through generations, their cakes strike that perfect balance between sweet and rich. The cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for savoring a slice alongside their signature coffee.
3. Russell’s Café & Bakery – St. Louis
Neighborhood gem alert! Russell’s elevates the humble gooey butter cake with chef-driven techniques and quality ingredients.
Their version features a slightly more sophisticated take while maintaining that nostalgic flavor locals adore. Enjoy a generous slice in their charming café setting alongside breakfast or lunch. The friendly staff often remembers regular customers’ favorite flavors.
4. Missouri Baking Company – St. Louis
Old-world tradition meets sweet innovation at this Hill neighborhood institution. Operating since 1924, Missouri Baking Company creates gooey butter cake with authentic Italian bakery flair.
Weekend mornings bring lines out the door as locals stock up on their famous squares. The slightly caramelized edges and perfect sweetness level make their version stand out. Many St. Louis families consider their recipe the gold standard.
5. McArthur’s Bakery – St. Louis
Royal treatment for a humble dessert! McArthur’s takes gooey butter cake seriously, perfecting their recipe through multiple generations since 1956.
The bakery offers both traditional and chocolate variations that fly off shelves daily. Their version features a slightly thicker cake layer that provides the perfect foundation for that signature gooey top. Special occasions in St. Louis often feature their cakes as the centerpiece dessert.
6. Gooey Louie – St. Louis
Sweet tooth satisfaction guaranteed! Specializing exclusively in gooey butter cake, this bakery offers over a dozen flavors from classic to chocolate chip.
Family-owned since 2006, Gooey Louie ships nationwide, spreading St. Louis’ signature dessert across America. Their perfectly balanced cakes feature that distinctive crackly top and ooey-gooey center that locals crave.
7. Federhofer’s Bakery – Affton
Time-tested perfection awaits at this suburban treasure! Since 1966, Federhofer’s has crafted gooey butter cake the old-fashioned way – rich, buttery, and unapologetically indulgent.
This no-frills bakery focuses on quality rather than trendy variations. Their classic recipe remains unchanged for decades, creating a nostalgic taste that transports locals back to childhood. The reasonable prices make it easy to grab a whole cake for family gatherings.
8. Nathaniel Reid Bakery – Kirkwood
French technique meets Missouri tradition at this award-winning patisserie. Internationally trained pastry chef Nathaniel Reid brings refinement to gooey butter cake without sacrificing its homey appeal.
The elegant setting might surprise first-timers seeking this humble treat. Yet one bite reveals a perfectly executed version with premium ingredients and precise baking. Their individually sized portions make it easy to sample alongside their famous French pastries.
