Ooey Gooey Bars are a beloved American dessert known for their decadent combination of textures and flavors. These rich, indulgent bars feature a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust and a creamy, sweet filling made with cream cheese. This dessert has become a popular choice for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings because of its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste.
History and Origins
Originating in the Southern or Midwestern United States, Ooey Gooey Bars have their roots in classic American comfort food. They are believed to have been popularized by the Gooey Butter Cake, a St. Louis specialty. Over time, variations of this treat emerged, leading to what we now commonly refer to as Ooey Gooey Bars.
Purpose of the Recipe
This recipe simplifies the process of making these bars at home, allowing even beginner bakers to enjoy a homemade version of this classic dessert. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time.
Ingredients Overview
Crust Ingredients Breakdown
- Yellow Cake Mix: The yellow cake mix forms the base of the crust, providing a sweet and tender foundation that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Using a pre-packaged cake mix simplifies the process and ensures consistent results every time.
- Butter: Two sticks of melted butter are added to the crust mixture, delivering a rich, flavorful taste while also helping to bind the ingredients together.
- Egg: A single egg is used to bring structure to the crust. It works as a binder, ensuring the crust stays firm and cohesive during baking.
Filling Ingredients Breakdown
- Cream Cheese: The star of the filling, cream cheese gives the bars their signature creamy texture and slight tang. When beaten until smooth, it provides the perfect base for the sweet filling.
- Eggs: Two beaten eggs are mixed into the filling to add structure and help the filling set during baking.
- Powdered Sugar: A full box of powdered sugar is gradually added to sweeten the filling, contributing to the bars’ melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with margarine or a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese.
- Add vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract for a subtle flavor twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish
- Preheating the Oven to 350°F: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. This temperature is perfect for achieving a golden crust without overcooking the creamy filling.
- Greasing the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking. You can use butter, non-stick cooking spray, or line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Making the Crust
- Mixing the Cake Mix, Melted Butter, and Egg: In a medium bowl, combine the dry yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. The dough should be thick and dough-like. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon of melted butter to help it come together.
- Pressing the Dough into the Pan: Evenly press the dough into the greased baking dish to form a flat crust layer. Make sure to spread it across the entire bottom of the pan, reaching all corners for a uniform thickness.
Making the Filling
- Beating the Cream Cheese until Smooth: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and lump-free. Softening the cream cheese beforehand is crucial for a smooth, creamy filling.
- Adding Eggs to the Cream Cheese Mixture: Gradually whisk in the beaten eggs. Ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated into the cream cheese for a cohesive filling.
- Gradually Adding Powdered Sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Continue whisking until the filling becomes thick and creamy. Avoid adding the sugar all at once, as this can cause lumps.
Assembling and Baking
- Pouring and Spreading the Filling Over the Crust: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the surface.
- Baking Time: Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know the bars are ready when the top is slightly golden, and the center is still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking, as the filling will continue to set as the bars cool.
Cooling and Cutting
- Why Cooling Completely is Essential Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack (about 1-2 hours) before cutting them into squares or rectangles. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly, giving the bars their signature gooey texture.
- How to Cut Bars Neatly: For clean, even cuts, use a sharp knife, and wipe it with a damp cloth between slices. Cutting the bars too soon may cause them to crumble or lose their structure.
Baking Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars
Tip 1: Use Softened Cream Cheese
Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth filling without lumps. To speed up the process, you can leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds (without melting it).
Tip 2: Don’t Overbake
For the perfect “ooey-gooey” texture, it’s important not to overbake the bars. Look for visual cues: the top should be lightly golden, and the center should remain slightly jiggly. The filling will continue to set as the bars cool.
Tip 3: Cooling Time
Allowing the bars to cool completely is essential for achieving the right texture. Placing them on a wire rack helps air circulate around the pan, promoting even cooling and ensuring the bars firm up nicely.
Tip 4: Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Ooey Gooey Bars can be made ahead of time. After baking, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature.
Creative Variations of Ooey Gooey Bars
Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars
For chocolate lovers, substitute the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix. This swap transforms the flavor profile, making the dessert richer and more decadent. You can also add chocolate chips to the filling for extra indulgence.
Pumpkin Ooey Gooey Bars
To give the bars a seasonal twist, add 1 cup of canned pumpkin to the cream cheese filling. Along with the pumpkin, incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor. This variation is perfect for fall or Thanksgiving gatherings.
Nutty Ooey Gooey Bars
For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds either in the crust or on top of the cream cheese filling before baking. The nuts add texture and balance the sweetness with a slightly savory, earthy taste.
Lemon Ooey Gooey Bars
For a tangy citrus variation, add the zest and juice of 1-2 lemons to the cream cheese filling. This refreshingly tart version complements the richness of the crust and filling, creating a bright and zesty dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Warm vs. Room Temperature
Ooey Gooey Bars can be served either warm or at room temperature, depending on preference. Warm bars have a softer, gooier texture, while room temperature bars are firmer and easier to slice. Both options are delicious, but serving them slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience.
Pairing with Beverages
These bars pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. The richness of the bars complements the warmth and slight bitterness of coffee or tea, creating a balanced dessert experience.
Plating and Presentation Tips
For a more polished presentation, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also add fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of elegance.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macros
Ooey Gooey Bars are a rich dessert, and each serving (about 1 bar from a 9×13-inch pan) contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. This includes around 20-22 grams of fat, 45-50 grams of carbohydrates, and 4-5 grams of protein. The bars are high in sugar due to the powdered sugar and cake mix, making them an indulgent treat.
Allergen Information
These bars contain common allergens like dairy (from cream cheese and butter), eggs, and gluten (from the cake mix). For those with dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free cake mix and dairy-free substitutes such as plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives to accommodate various needs without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs About Ooey Gooey Bars
1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor for the crust?
Yes, you can! Changing the flavor of the cake mix allows you to create endless variations of Ooey Gooey Bars. For example, using chocolate cake mix creates a richer, more decadent version. Red velvet cake mix brings a festive touch, making the bars perfect for holidays. A lemon cake mix offers a citrusy twist, adding a refreshing tang to the overall flavor.
2. How long do these bars stay fresh?
At room temperature, Ooey Gooey Bars can last up to three days when stored in an airtight container. If you prefer them slightly firmer or want them to last longer, refrigerating them extends their freshness for up to one week. Just make sure to bring the bars to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
3. Can I freeze Ooey Gooey Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Once they have completely cooled, cut them into squares and wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Why is my filling runny?
A runny filling is often the result of undercooking. Be sure to bake the bars until the top is slightly golden and the center is only slightly jiggly. Not fully incorporating the eggs into the cream cheese mixture can also result in a runny texture. Make sure to beat the eggs thoroughly before adding them to the filling.
5. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. Many gluten-free mixes perform similarly to regular mixes, offering the same texture and flavor for the crust. Make sure all other ingredients (such as powdered sugar and cream cheese) are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Summary of the Recipe’s Appeal
Ooey Gooey Bars are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Their rich, buttery crust and creamy filling make them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Encouragement to Try Different Variations
This recipe offers plenty of room for creativity, allowing you to experiment with different cake mixes and fillings. From chocolate to lemon, the possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a unique flavor to this classic dessert.
Final Thoughts on Enjoying Ooey Gooey Bars
Ooey Gooey Bars are a family favorite because they’re easy to make and always delicious. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a special treat for gatherings, they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your creations!
Ooey Gooey Bars
Description
Ooey Gooey Bars are a rich and decadent dessert featuring a buttery cake mix crust and a smooth, sweet cream cheese filling. These bars are a perfect combination of textures, with a slightly crisp bottom and a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth top. They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile, allowing for endless variations with different cake mixes and fillings.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter, melted
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 box (16 oz) powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the bars bake evenly, with a golden crust and a perfectly gooey center. - Prepare the Crust
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until the mixture becomes dough-like and evenly combined.
Note: The dough will be thick and sticky. If necessary, use your hands or a spatula to help press it together. - Press the Crust into the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Evenly press the dough into the dish, ensuring the bottom is covered completely.
Tip: For easier spreading, lightly grease your fingers or a spatula to press the dough into the pan without sticking. - Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Gradually whisk in the beaten eggs until fully incorporated.
Note: It’s important that the cream cheese is softened, as this helps achieve a smooth filling. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using, or microwave for 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry. - Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. The filling should be thick, creamy, and fully combined.
Tip: To prevent powdered sugar from flying everywhere, add it slowly and mix on low speed if using an electric mixer. - Assemble the Bars
Pour the cream cheese filling over the pressed crust, using a spatula to spread it out evenly across the surface. Ensure the filling reaches all corners of the dish. - Bake the Bars
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the center is still jiggly.
Note: Avoid overbaking! The bars will continue to set as they cool, so it’s okay if they seem a little underdone when you take them out of the oven. - Cool the Bars Completely
Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours before cutting. This cooling period is crucial for the filling to set properly.
Tip: For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. - Serve and Store
Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours or in the refrigerator overnight.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors or add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or lemon zest to create unique versions of this classic dessert. The bars are highly versatile and perfect for adapting to seasonal flavors or personal preferences.
- Serving Ideas: These bars are delicious on their own, but for a more indulgent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
