Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe: Your Ultimate Guide to a Sweet Treat

Who doesn’t love a dessert that practically melts in your mouth? Ooey Gooey Bars are the perfect combination of buttery, sweet, and creamy. These bars are ridiculously easy to make, yet they deliver big on flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, this recipe has got you covered.

So grab your baking gear, and let’s dive into the magic of making the most irresistible Ooey Gooey Bars.

Ingredients

For the base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the topping:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Stir until the mixture forms a soft dough.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.

Step 2: Make the Topping

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, and mix until well incorporated.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Continue mixing until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the base layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown, but the center will still be slightly jiggly—that’s what makes them ooey gooey!
3. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars

• Don’t overbake! The jiggle in the center is what keeps these bars moist and gooey.
• Room temperature ingredients make mixing easier and ensure a smooth topping.
• For a flavor twist, try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or swapping vanilla extract for almond extract.
• Store leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Lovers: Use a chocolate cake mix for the base and sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
• Peanut Butter Bliss: Add a swirl of peanut butter to the cream cheese topping for a nutty kick.
• Holiday Vibes: Mix in crushed peppermint candies or a dash of cinnamon for a festive touch.

Conclusion

Ooey Gooey Bars are the perfect dessert when you want something quick, easy, and utterly delicious. With their buttery crust and creamy topping, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with fun variations, these bars are sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and enjoy every decadent bite of these Ooey Gooey Bars!