Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly balances chewy and gooey, these Ooey Gooey Bars are going to be your new favorite treat. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and rich, making them an ideal choice for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The ultimate indulgence with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s unforgettable.
- Versatile treat that can be personalized with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.
- Guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth with its rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, divided
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Base Layer
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Cream Cheese Topping
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining egg, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until creamy and well-blended. Spread this mixture evenly over the base layer.
Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crusty while the center remains gooey. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients. This helps to blend everything smoothly. Learn more about the importance of room temperature ingredients here.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free alternative.
Variations
- Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a chocolaty twist.
- Pecan Ooey Gooey Bars: Add a 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the cream cheese mixture for a nutty flavor.
- Fruit Swirl Ooey Gooey Bars: Swirl in a 1/4 cup of your favorite jam or fruit preserve into the cream cheese layer.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Storage Instructions
Store your Ooey Gooey Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
These bars pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy afternoon snack, enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. Discover more tips on baking techniques.
- To achieve the perfect gooey texture, avoid overbaking.
FAQ
- Can I make Ooey Gooey Bars ahead of time? Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors like devil’s food or spice cake.
- How do I know when the bars are done? Look for a golden brown top with a slightly set center. They should not jiggle, but the center will be soft.