Ooey Gooey Bars are a rich and decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With a buttery, soft cake layer and a luscious cream cheese filling, these bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide to create delicious Ooey Gooey Bars that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Ooey Gooey Bars
- 1 box yellow cake mix: Forms the base layer of the bars, providing a sweet and buttery foundation.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the cake mix into a soft, chewy crust.
- 3 large eggs: Divided use; one for the base and two for the filling, providing structure and moisture.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: The key ingredient for the creamy, gooey filling.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling, making it smooth and rich.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and flavor to the filling.
Instructions: How to Make Ooey Gooey Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Base Layer
- 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.
- Mix the Cake Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 large egg. Stir until well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.
- Press the Dough into the Pan:
- Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In another large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the remaining 2 large eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth and fully incorporated. The filling should be thick and creamy.
- Pour the Filling Over the Base:
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
- Bake the Bars:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The top should be golden brown, but the center should still be slightly gooey. Be careful not to overbake, as the gooey texture is what makes these bars special.
- Cool Completely:
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This will help the filling set and make the bars easier to cut.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice and Serve:
- Once cooled, slice the Ooey Gooey Bars into squares or rectangles. Serve them as they are, or with a dusting of extra powdered sugar on top.
🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a hint of lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for a different flavor twist.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Variations of Ooey Gooey Bars
Here are some ways to customize your Ooey Gooey Bars:
- Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake for a rich, chocolatey version.
- Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Bars: Add a swirl of peanut butter to the cream cheese filling for a nutty twist.
- Pumpkin Ooey Gooey Bars: Add a cup of canned pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the filling for a fall-inspired treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you prefer, such as chocolate, spice, or lemon, to change the flavor of 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, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, Ooey Gooey Bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. What can I serve with Ooey Gooey Bars?
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make these bars gluten-free.
A Rich and Decadent Dessert
Ooey Gooey Bars are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. With their buttery cake base and creamy, gooey filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with different flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy this rich, decadent treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!