Imagine walking into a kitchen where the warm, buttery aroma of cake is wafting through the air. That’s the sensation you get with Maggiano's Austin Butter Cake. Known for its rich, moist texture and delightful buttery flavor, this dessert has garnered a dedicated following. Today, we're going to guide you through making this exquisite dessert right in your own home with an easy recipe that anyone can follow. Let's dive into the world of this beloved Austin Butter Cake from Maggiano's!
Why You’ll Love Maggiano’s Austin Butter Cake
Before we delve into the recipe, let’s understand why the Maggiano’s Austin Butter Cake is so special:
- Rich Texture: The cake has a dense and moist texture, which provides a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Buttery Taste: True to its name, the cake boasts a pronounced buttery flavor that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
- Simplicity: Despite its sophisticated taste, the recipe uses common ingredients, making it accessible for home bakers.
- Flexible Servings: It’s perfect for intimate dinners or can be scaled up for larger gatherings.
Now, let’s get started with the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 package (18.25 ounces) of yellow cake mix
- 1 stick (1⁄2 cup) of unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 package (8 ounces) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 pound of powdered sugar (around 3 ¾ cups)
- Additional butter for greasing the pan
🍰 Note: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preheating and Pan Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13x9 inch baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking.
Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
- Combine the yellow cake mix with 1 stick of softened butter.
- Beat on low speed until mixed, then add 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
In another bowl:
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 2 more eggs and vanilla extract, beating well after each egg.
- Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until thoroughly combined.
⚠️ Note: The cream cheese topping should be thick yet spreadable.
Assemble and Bake
- Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake batter, smoothing it out.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. The center might still be a bit jiggly.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. As it cools, it will continue to set.
- Once cooled, cut into squares or slices to serve.
🕒 Note: For best results, let the cake sit at room temperature or chill it in the fridge before serving.
Customization Tips
To make this Austin Butter Cake uniquely yours, consider:
- Add Flavors: Incorporate lemon zest, almond extract, or a dash of cinnamon into the batter for a twist.
- Toppings: Drizzle with caramel, dust with powdered sugar, or top with fresh berries for added flair.
- Serving Options: Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
In this delightful journey of baking Maggiano’s Austin Butter Cake, we’ve covered not only the traditional recipe but also ways to personalize it to fit your taste. With its easy-to-follow steps and forgiving nature, this recipe is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The cake’s enduring popularity lies in its comforting, buttery goodness, making it a timeless dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s for a special event, a cozy night in, or just because, this Austin Butter Cake from Maggiano’s will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process of creation and the joy of sharing this deliciously simple yet elegant dessert with friends and family.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
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Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like white cake mix or even chocolate for a different taste profile.
How do I store leftover Austin Butter Cake?
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Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Is there a way to make the cake less sweet?
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Yes, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the topping by about 1⁄4 cup or use a lower sugar cake mix.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make it gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What can I do if I don’t have an 13x9 inch baking dish?
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Use two 8-inch round pans or adjust the baking time if using smaller pans. Keep an eye on the cake to avoid overcooking.
