Ooey Gooey Bars are a beloved dessert that combines a rich, buttery crust with a sweet and creamy topping. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet. The combination of a yellow cake mix crust and a cream cheese topping creates a deliciously rich and decadent dessert that will have everyone coming back for more. Here’s how to make these irresistible bars.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
- 1 egg
For the Topping:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you’re ready to bake.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined. The mixture will be thick and sticky, resembling a cookie dough.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to spread it out, ensuring it covers the entire bottom of the pan.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In another large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer.
- Add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add the egg and mix until well combined. The topping should be smooth and slightly thick.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out and ensure it covers the crust completely.
- Bake the Bars:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The bars are done when the top is set and slightly golden brown. The center may still be a bit jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This will help them set and make them easier to cut.
- Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. These bars can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.
Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will make it easier to blend with the powdered sugar and egg, resulting in a smooth and creamy topping.
- Mixing:
- When mixing the crust, ensure that the butter is fully melted and mixed in well with the cake mix and egg. This helps create a uniform crust that bakes evenly.
- Baking Time:
- Keep a close eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking. They should be set and slightly golden brown on top. Overbaking can cause the bars to lose their ooey-gooey texture.
- Cooling:
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting. This allows the topping to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. If you prefer chilled bars, you can refrigerate them after they have cooled at room temperature.
- Variations:
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors for the crust, such as chocolate or spice cake, to create new flavor combinations.
- Add mix-ins to the topping, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or fruit preserves, to customize the bars to your liking.
Storage and Serving
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If storing in the fridge, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Serving: These bars are perfect for any occasion and can be served as a dessert, snack, or even a sweet breakfast treat. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Ooey Gooey Bars are a timeless dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of a rich, buttery crust and a sweet, creamy topping creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful, ooey-gooey goodness!
