Ooey Gooey Bars: A Treat Worth Your Time
Short introduction
Ooey Gooey Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly combines a rich, buttery base with a creamy, sweet filling. They are a hit at parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat for your family. The melted cream cheese filling creates that signature gooey texture, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Why you’ll love it
These bars are not just delicious; they are incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults. Plus, they are versatile enough to be served for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a casual weekend treat.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
- 2 sticks butter (melted)
- 1 egg
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Substitutions & key variations
If you’re looking to put a twist on Ooey Gooey Bars, consider these substitutions:
- Cake Mix: You can use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a different flavor.
- Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese.
- Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for extra flavor and fun.
Step-by-step
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking. This temperature is crucial for getting the perfect texture.
Step 2
In a medium bowl, combine 1 box of yellow cake mix, 2 sticks of melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined. The dough will be thick and sticky, so don’t be surprised.
Step 3
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps the bars come out easily after baking.
Step 4
Gently press the dough into an even layer in the baking pan. Firmly pack it to create a solid base for your bars.
Step 5
In a large bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes of mixing.
Step 6
Add 2 beaten eggs to the cream cheese and whisk until well mixed and smooth. This will create the creamy filling.
Step 7
Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, whisking until the filling is thick and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 8
Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly. This will give you that gooey top layer.
Step 9
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is slightly golden and the center is still jiggly. Avoid overbaking for the best gooey texture.
Step 10
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 1-2 hours to allow the filling to set. This is important for cutting perfect squares.
Step 11
After cooling, cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife. Serve at room temperature and enjoy with a glass of milk or coffee.
Success tips
- Temperature: Keep your oven at the correct temperature to avoid overbaking. A golden top with a soft center is what you want.
- Texture: Letting the bars cool for a couple of hours will help them set and achieve that gooey texture.
- Common Mistakes: Do not rush the cooling process; cutting too soon can make them fall apart.
How to serve
Serve these Ooey Gooey Bars on a platter at room temperature. Pair them with a glass of milk, coffee, or even ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. They make an excellent addition to any dessert table!
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that gooey texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cake mix flavors?
- Yes, chocolate cake mix or lemon cake mix also works well for a different taste.
How do I know when they are done?
- The bars should be slightly golden on top and the center should still be jiggly when you take them out of the oven.
Can I freeze these bars?
- Yes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What can I do if my bars are too gooey?
- If the bars are too gooey, they may need longer in the oven. Always allow them to cool completely before cutting.
Can I add toppings?
- Absolutely! You can top with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or fresh fruit.
Conclusion
Ooey Gooey Bars are an ideal dessert for any occasion, combining flavors and textures that everyone loves. Their easy preparation makes them a favorite in the kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them yourself or sharing with others, these bars are sure to impress! Try making them today for a sweet treat that’ll delight.
Links to related recipes
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Cream Cheese Brownies
- Classic Rice Krispie Treats
- Lemon Gooey Bars
- Peanut Butter Swirl Bars
Ooey Gooey Bars
Ingredients
For the base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
- 2 sticks butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
For the creamy filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 3.5 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 box of yellow cake mix, 2 sticks of melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Gently press the dough into an even layer in the baking pan.
Creamy Filling
- In a large bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add 2 beaten eggs to the cream cheese and whisk until well mixed and smooth.
- Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, whisking until the filling is thick and creamy.
Baking
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust and spread it evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 1-2 hours.
- After cooling, cut into squares or rectangles and serve at room temperature.