Ooey Gooey Bars
A couple of months ago, my family and I visited my grandparents in California. It had been quite some time since our last visit, and I dearly missed spending time with them. Yes, this is the same grandma who provides many of the delightful recipes on this blog, thanks to the incredible cookbook she compiled, filled with recipes she’s cherished since she first got married.
During our visit, she made these Ooey Gooey Bars for dessert, and I couldn’t stop eating them! Perhaps it was the pregnancy cravings for sugar and sweets, but these bars were irresistible. When I asked for the recipe, she revealed it had been in her cookbook all along, and I had just somehow overlooked it. They’re incredibly easy to make and offer the perfect combination of ooey-gooey goodness and deliciousness! Trust me, you need to make these!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Ooey Gooey Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a rich, creamy topping. They’re simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Ingredients
Crust:
1 box yellow cake mix, dry – not prepared
8 tablespoons butter, melted
1 egg
Gooey Layer:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
2 eggs, beaten
16 oz. powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pat and press the dough evenly over the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, beat and cream the cream cheese. Add the eggs and beat until smooth for a minute or two.
- Add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture and continue to beat until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for about 25-30 minutes or until done. Do not overbake.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before using to achieve a smooth mixture.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain the gooey texture. The bars are ready when the edges are set, but the center may still jiggle slightly.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding a handful of chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- For a tangy twist, mix some lemon zest into the cream cheese layer.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors for a unique twist.
Q: How should I store these bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze Ooey Gooey Bars?
A: Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Conclusion
These Ooey Gooey Bars are a surefire way to win over anyone with a sweet tooth! They’re easy to make and simply delightful. Try them out and let me know how they turn out for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you try. Happy baking!