Gooey Lemon Butter Cake

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (or 8×8-inch for thicker cake) baking dish.
2. Make the crust layer:
   In a bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until crumbly and press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Make the gooey lemon layer:
   In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, softened butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth and fluffy.
4. Assemble:
   Pour the lemon mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the center is still slightly jiggly (that’s the gooey magic).
6. Cool:
   Let it cool completely in the pan. Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving if desired.