Indulge in the decadent delight of Ooey Gooey Bars, a dessert that combines the simplicity of a yellow cake mix crust with a rich, creamy cream cheese filling. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Ease of Preparation: Utilizing a boxed cake mix for the crust makes this recipe quick and easy to prepare.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and powdered sugar creates a lusciously smooth and sweet filling.
- Perfectly Sweet: These bars strike an ideal balance between the buttery crust and the indulgent cream cheese topping.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter, melted
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 box (16 oz) powdered sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix the dry yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until well combined. The mixture should be dough-like.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a solid, even layer.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the beaten eggs to the cream cheese and whisk until well combined, ensuring the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, whisking continuously until the filling is thick and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The top should be slightly golden and the center slightly jiggly, as it will set upon cooling.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours. This helps the filling set and makes cutting easier.
- Once cooled, cut the dessert into squares or rectangles.
Serving and Storage:
- Serve the Ooey Gooey Bars at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars:
- Even Layering: Ensure the crust and filling are spread evenly to cook uniformly.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool thoroughly before slicing to ensure they hold their shape and texture.
These Ooey Gooey Bars are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a delightfully rich treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy the gooey goodness of these easy-to-make bars at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself!
