Description
Ooey Gooey Butter Bars are a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a buttery cake mix crust topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling. These bars combine a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a perfect balance of sweetness, making them a favorite for gatherings or a decadent treat anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 ¾ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg until a thick dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, creating a solid base for the bars.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth without lumps. Add the two large eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until combined. Gradually pour in the melted butter, then beat in the powdered sugar until the filling is creamy, thick, and smooth.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The edges should turn golden and be set, while the center remains slightly gooey to achieve that signature ooey gooey texture. Avoid overbaking to keep the filling moist.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and optionally dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly gooey to maintain the signature texture.
- Using parchment paper in the pan helps with easy removal and cleaner cutting.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate on top after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ooey gooey butter bars, cream cheese dessert bars, easy dessert recipes, buttery crust bars, sweet bars
