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
Scale
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.