If you’re looking for a dessert that’s perfectly indulgent, simple to make, and guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth, look no further than these Ooey Gooey Bars. With a buttery cake mix crust and a rich, creamy filling, these bars are a dream come true for anyone who loves gooey, melt-in-your-mouth treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Super simple: This recipe uses a yellow cake mix for the crust, making it quick and easy to prepare.
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Creamy, dreamy filling: The cream cheese filling is rich and velvety, with the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
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Golden brown top: The bars bake to a beautiful golden brown with a soft, gooey center that’s impossible to resist.
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Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, family gathering, or just want a sweet treat at home, these bars are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Crust:
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1 box yellow cake mix – Provides a simple and sweet base for the bars.
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted – Adds richness and helps bind the crust together.
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1 egg – Helps the crust set and gives it structure.
For the Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, rich filling that contrasts beautifully with the crust.
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2 eggs – Adds texture and stability to the filling.
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
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4 cups (16 oz) powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and gives the filling its signature gooey consistency.
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted – Combines with the other ingredients to make the filling rich and velvety.
Tips and Tricks:
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Make ahead: These bars can be made a day ahead of time. Just let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature.
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Customize the flavor: Try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
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Chill before serving: If you want to enjoy them with a firmer texture, refrigerate them for a couple of hours before serving.
Variations and Customizations:
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Add chocolate chips: Stir in some chocolate chips or mini M&Ms for a fun, colorful twist.
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Top with fruit: Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, make a delicious topping that pairs wonderfully with the sweet filling.
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Drizzle with caramel: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars once they’re baked.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Coffee or tea: These bars are perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat or dessert.
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Vanilla ice cream: Serve these gooey bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Storage Instructions:
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Room temperature: Store the bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
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Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
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Freezing: Freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Popular Questions:
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can easily swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate, vanilla, or even red velvet for a unique twist on these bars.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free cake mix in place of the regular yellow cake mix to make these bars gluten-free. Just ensure that the rest of the ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze the bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn
