Ooey Gooey Bars are a rich, decadent dessert that combines a buttery cake mix base with a creamy, sweet filling that practically melts in your mouth. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from parties to family gatherings, or just as a sweet treat to share. The layers of buttery cake and gooey filling make them simply irresistible!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Gooey Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Base Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until well mixed and a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the base layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Gooey Topping
In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the base layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The edges should be golden brown and set, while the center remains slightly jiggly. The gooey texture is what makes these bars so special!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the Ooey Gooey Bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Cooling will help set the gooey filling, making slicing easier.
Cook Notes
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy topping.
- Baking Time: Be careful not to overbake; the center should still be slightly soft when you remove it from the oven.
- Mixing: Mix the ingredients for the base until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
Variations
1. Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars
Replace the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a rich, chocolatey twist. You can also add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the gooey topping for extra indulgence.
2. Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Bars
Add 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture before adding the powdered sugar for a nutty flavor.
3. Lemon Ooey Gooey Bars
Replace the yellow cake mix with lemon cake mix and add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the gooey topping for a fresh, citrusy version.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries to add a burst of tartness that balances the rich sweetness of the bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Ooey Gooey Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes! These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Ooey Gooey Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like spice, red velvet, or strawberry cake mix to create unique variations.
Ooey Gooey Bars are a decadent and delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With their buttery base and sweet, creamy topping, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a special event or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and indulge in the ooey, gooey goodness!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
