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!
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