Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe

Irresistibly Sweet Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe for Dessert Lovers

Chocolate chip ooey gooey bars combine decadent sweetness with irresistible texture.

Creamy layers melt together in a symphony of rich flavors.

Comfort meets indulgence through each delectable square of pure delight.

Childhood memories dance across taste buds with every gooey bite.

Sweet sensations promise a delightful escape from ordinary desserts.

Baking enthusiasts will love this simple yet magical treat that requires minimal effort.

Minimal ingredients unlock maximum pleasure in these irresistible bars.

Prepare to discover your new favorite dessert that sparks joy with every single mouthwatering bite.

  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impress family and friends with this rich, decadent treat that combines the comfort of cake mix with the luxurious creaminess of a cheesecake-like filling.
  • Versatile Sweet Sensation: Ideal for potlucks, birthday parties, casual gatherings, or when you're craving a quick and indulgent dessert that requires no fancy techniques or special equipment.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: These bars can be prepared in advance, making them a stress-free option for busy home cooks who want to have a delectable dessert ready without last-minute hassle.

Ooey Gooey Bars Ingredient List

Base Ingredients:
  • Yellow Cake Mix: A sweet foundation for the dessert bar.
  • Butter: Rich, melted goodness that adds moisture.
  • Eggs: Binding element for the crust and filling.
Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy base for the creamy layer.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling.
  • Eggs: Provides structure to the cream cheese layer.
Optional Topping/Garnish Ingredients:
  • Vanilla Extract: Optional flavor enhancer for extra depth.
  • Salt: Subtle seasoning to balance sweetness.

Simple Instructions for Ooey Gooey Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment.

Step 2: Create the Magical Crust

In a medium bowl, blend together:
  • Yellow cake mix
  • Melted butter
  • Egg

Mix until the ingredients transform into a delightful dough-like consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and gently press the dough across the bottom, creating an even, smooth crust.

Step 4: Craft the Creamy Filling

Grab a large mixing bowl and whip the cream cheese until silky smooth.

Add eggs and whisk until perfectly combined.

Step 5: Sweeten the Mixture

Gradually fold powdered sugar into the cream cheese blend, whisking until the mixture becomes thick and luxuriously creamy.

Step 6: Layer the Filling

Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Look for a slightly golden top with a subtle jiggle in the center.

Step 8: Cool and Set

Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack for 1-2 hours, allowing them to set and develop their signature gooey texture.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares or rectangles, serving at room temperature.

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Tips for Gooey Bar Perfection

  • Leave cream cheese at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before beating to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
  • Check bars at 25 minutes to avoid over-browning; a slight golden top indicates they're done.
  • Wipe knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts for neat, smooth-edged bar pieces.
  • Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into cream cheese mixture for extra texture and taste.

Best Way to Store Ooey Gooey Bars

  • Transfer the cooled Ooey Gooey Bars to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container to preserve freshness for up to 3 weeks.
  • Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight, then let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture and taste.
  • Enjoy the bars cold straight from the refrigerator or warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a gooey, melty treat.

What to Serve With Gooey Bars

Explore Delectable Pairings for Ooey Gooey Bars:
  • Brew Creamy Coffee Match: Rich espresso or smooth cappuccino perfectly cuts through the sweetness, balancing the bar's decadent cream cheese texture with bold, robust coffee notes.
  • Select Fresh Berry Contrast: Tart raspberries or bright strawberries provide a refreshing counterpoint, creating a delightful flavor explosion that cleanses the palate between rich, sweet bites.
  • Complement with Chilled Milk: Cold whole milk or almond milk enhances the dessert's creamy profile, offering a smooth, cooling effect that highlights the bar's luxurious texture.
  • Pair with Vanilla Scoop: Smooth vanilla ice cream adds extra indulgence, melting slightly against the warm bar and creating a heavenly temperature and flavor combination.

Gooey Bar Recipe Variations

  • Gluten-Free Lovers' Bar: Replace yellow cake mix with gluten-free cake mix or almond flour blend for celiac and gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Bar: Substitute powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce sugar content while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Dairy-Free Dream Bar: Use coconut cream cheese alternative and plant-based butter substitute to create a vegan-friendly version of the classic dessert.
  • Chocolate Chunk Indulgence Bar: Sprinkle dark chocolate chunks or cocoa nibs on top of cream cheese layer before baking for rich chocolate enhancement.

FAQs

  • Are these bars super sweet?

Yes, they are quite sweet due to the yellow cake mix and powdered sugar, making them a decadent dessert for those with a serious sweet tooth.

  • Can I use a different type of cake mix?

While yellow cake mix works best, you could experiment with white or vanilla cake mix for similar results, but the flavor profile might slightly change.

  • Why does the center need to be jiggly when baking?

The slight jiggle indicates the cream cheese filling is perfectly cooked but not overdone, which helps maintain the signature gooey texture of the bars.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these bars?

No special equipment is needed – just a mixing bowl, baking dish, and standard kitchen tools like a whisk and spatula will work perfectly.

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Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe

Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sinful Ooey Gooey Bars melt chocolate and caramel into a heavenly dessert that promises pure indulgence. Creamy layers and rich textures invite you to savor each delectable bite of sweet comfort.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 ounces / 432 grams) yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
  • 2 sticks (1 cup / 226 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the kitchen workspace and gather all necessary tools for a smooth baking experience.
  2. Preheat the oven to a precise 350°F (175°C) to ensure uniform heat distribution.
  3. Create the crust by combining yellow cake mix, melted butter, and an egg in a medium bowl, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
  4. Thoroughly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with grease, then carefully press the prepared dough into an even layer across the bottom.
  5. In a separate large mixing bowl, transform cream cheese into a velvety smooth texture by beating it until no lumps remain.
  6. Introduce eggs to the cream cheese, whisking gently to create a harmonious blend.
  7. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar into the cream cheese mixture, continuing to whisk until the filling achieves a luxurious, creamy consistency.
  8. Gently cascade the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, using a spatula to distribute it evenly across the surface.
  9. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a delicate golden hue on top and a subtle jiggle in the center.
  10. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack, which typically takes 1-2 hours.
  11. Once cooled, slice into precise squares or rectangles for serving.
  12. Enjoy at room temperature and store any remaining bars in an airtight container, consuming within three days for optimal freshness.

Notes

  • Swap cake mix for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions and create a celiac-friendly dessert.
  • Chill the bars for extra firmness and cleaner cutting lines, enhancing the overall presentation and texture.
  • Prevent over-browning by covering the top with aluminum foil halfway through baking if edges start to darken too quickly.
  • Experiment with flavor variations by adding extracts like vanilla, almond, or lemon to the cream cheese filling for a personalized twist.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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