Description
These Ooey Gooey Bars feature a rich and creamy cream cheese topping over a buttery yellow cake crust, baked to golden perfection. They are irresistibly soft and sweet, making them a perfect treat for parties, gatherings, or dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of bars.
- Prepare the crust dough: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix thoroughly until a thick dough forms that will serve as the base of the bars.
- Press the crust: Evenly press the dough mixture into the prepared baking pan, ensuring an even layer that covers the entire bottom of the pan.
- Make the cream cheese filling: Using the same bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Then add the 2 eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the filling is fully combined and creamy in texture.
- Pour filling over crust: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust, spreading it to the edges so it covers the base completely.
- Bake the bars: Bake the pan in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still slightly jiggly, indicating the perfect ooey gooey texture.
- Cool the bars: Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan; this helps them set and makes cutting easier without crumbling.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut into 12 squares and serve as a delicious, rich dessert or snack.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips or nuts over the cream cheese layer before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw completely before serving.
