Get ready to experience a slice of heaven with our irresistible Gooey Cake Mix Cookie Bars. These delectable treats are a cinch to make, yet they’ll have your taste buds dancing with delight. With layers of gooey goodness, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at your next gathering. Follow along as we guide you through creating this mouthwatering dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15.25 oz.) box white cake mix
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butterscotch or peanut butter chips
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, canola oil, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press Into Pan:
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth layer.
- Layer the Chips:
- Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch or peanut butter chips evenly over the dough.
- Add the Gooey Layer:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt (if using).
- Pour the mixture evenly over the chips and dough in the baking pan.
- Bake:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or bars.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Gooey Cake Mix Cookie Bars on their own or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Nutty Addition: Add a layer of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Fruit Twist: Mix in dried fruit such as cherries, raisins, or cranberries for a burst of sweetness.
- Frosting Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or vanilla frosting over the cooled bars for an added touch of decadence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix such as chocolate, yellow, or even red velvet.
Q: Can I use vegetable oil instead of canola oil? A: Yes, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil in this recipe.
Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2-3 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer.
Q: Can I use sweetened coconut flakes in this recipe? A: Yes, sweetened coconut flakes can be added for a tropical twist. Sprinkle them over the dough along with the chocolate and butterscotch chips.
Q: Can I make these bars without sweetened condensed milk? A: The sweetened condensed milk is essential for creating the gooey layer in these bars. However, you can try using a homemade condensed milk substitute if desired.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Cake Mix: Use a keto-friendly cake mix or almond flour-based cake mix.
- Oil: Substitute canola oil with melted coconut oil or avocado oil for a healthier option.
- Sweeteners: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and butterscotch or peanut butter chips.
- Condensed Milk: Use a sugar-free condensed milk alternative or make your own keto-friendly version using heavy cream and a low-carb sweetener.
In conclusion, our Gooey Cake Mix Cookie Bars are a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. With their gooey center, chewy edges, and irresistible combination of flavors, these bars are sure to become a hit with family and friends. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a taste of pure bliss!
