Loretta Lynn'S Gooey Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich, gooey chocolate cake with sweet condensed milk and caramel topping, perfect for indulgent gatherings and dessert lovers seeking a moist, flavorful treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 jar butterscotch or caramel topping

Instructions

  1. Bake the German chocolate cake according to the package directions.
  2. While still warm, poke holes in the cake with a wooden spoon handle, about 1 inch apart, halfway into the cake, not to the bottom.
  3. Pour the sweetened condensed milk into the holes.
  4. Spread the caramel or butterscotch topping over the top of the cake.
  5. Allow the cake to cool before serving to let the flavors meld.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a high-quality sweetened condensed milk or adding a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness. If you don't have German chocolate cake mix, a chocolate or yellow cake mix can work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. To enhance the texture, top with chopped nuts or shredded coconut before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This gooey cake is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive twist, consider serving it during the holidays with a slice of Christmas Tortoni for a delightful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, you can place a slice in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a freshly baked taste.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Loretta Lynn'S Gooey Cake contains roughly 320 calories, with 3g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

320 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 13.5g 17% DV
Carbs 47.2g 17% DV
Fiber 5g 18% DV
Sugar 35.2g 70% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 197.5mg 9% DV
Potassium 113.9mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 33.8mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 83.3mg 6% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before adding the sweetened condensed milk and topping. Store it in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enjoy the gooey texture.

What can I substitute for butterscotch topping?

If you don’t have butterscotch topping, you can use caramel sauce or even chocolate syrup for a different flavor profile. Each option will give a unique twist to the cake while still maintaining its gooeyness.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! While German chocolate cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with chocolate or yellow cake mixes. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will change, but it will still be deliciously gooey.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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