Ooey Gooey Bars are a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for any sweet tooth. With a buttery crust and a creamy, gooey topping, these bars are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. They’re great for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Topping

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

1. In another large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the topping is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden. The center should still be a bit gooey.
3. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy the ooey gooey goodness!

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth and creamy topping.
• Don’t Overbake: The bars should still be a bit gooey in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to set as they cool.
• Lining the Pan: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out for cutting.

Variations

• Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars: Use a chocolate cake mix for the crust and add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the topping for a chocolatey twist.
• Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Bars: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture for a delicious peanut butter flavor.
• Lemon Ooey Gooey Bars: Use a lemon cake mix and add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty version.
• Nutty Ooey Gooey Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust mixture for a crunchy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?

Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix for the crust. Chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix all work well and give a different twist to the bars.

2. How Do I Store Ooey Gooey Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

3. Can I Freeze Ooey Gooey Bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. How Do I Know When the Bars Are Done?

The bars are done when the top is set and slightly golden, but the center should still be soft and a bit gooey. The edges will be more firm.

Ooey Gooey Bars are the ultimate indulgence, with a buttery crust and a creamy, sweet topping that’s hard to resist. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and always a hit. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the delicious variations, you’re sure to love every bite of these rich and gooey treats. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the irresistible sweetness!