Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe

Ooey Gooey Bars are a rich and decadent treat with a buttery crust and a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth topping. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or an indulgent dessert at home, these bars are a classic Southern favorite that’s easy to whip up. Their combination of creamy and chewy textures makes them unforgettable. Here’s how to make these delicious bars step by step.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or white cake mix for a lighter version)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Gooey Topping:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups (1 lb) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Equipment Needed:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg.
• Mix until fully combined and the dough is thick and cohesive.
• Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, using your hands or the back of a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Gooey Topping

• In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth.
• Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat until combined.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
• Pour in the melted butter and continue mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble

• Pour the gooey topping over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.
• The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. This ensures the bars are moist and gooey when cooled.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve at room temperature for the best texture. Dust with extra powdered sugar for presentation, or top with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Helpful Notes

• Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
• Butter Quality: Using high-quality unsalted butter enhances the flavor of the crust and topping.
• Mix Variations: Substitute the yellow cake mix with chocolate or spice cake mix for a different twist.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Paula Deen: Recommends using extra vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract for a richer flavor.
• Ina Garten: Suggests sifting the powdered sugar for a smoother topping.
• Martha Stewart: Advises adding a touch of lemon zest for a bright, subtle tang that complements the sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can switch up the flavor by using chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix to create a variety of ooey gooey bars.

Q2: What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?
Mascarpone cheese is a great substitute, but it will create a slightly different texture and flavor.

Q3: How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown and the center should still jiggle slightly. The bars will set as they cool.

Q4: Can I add toppings to the bars?
Yes, try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes to the gooey topping before baking.

Q5: What can I do to prevent the crust from being too hard?
Mix the crust just until combined and avoid overpacking it into the pan. This will keep it tender.

Q6: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix to create a gluten-free version of the bars.

Q7: Why are my bars too runny in the middle?
If the bars are too runny, they may need additional baking time. Check at 5-minute intervals after the initial baking time until done.

Q8: Should I refrigerate the bars after baking?
While not necessary, refrigerating them can make the bars easier to cut and serve.

Q9: Can I add fruit to the topping?
Yes, gently fold in blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

Q10: How do I make the bars extra gooey?
For an extra gooey center, slightly underbake them and let them cool completely before cutting.

Enjoy these rich and decadent Ooey Gooey Bars, perfect for any dessert table or just a special treat at home!