Ooey Gooey Bars are a classic Southern treat known for their melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese topping and buttery cake base. Every bite combines a golden, chewy crust with a rich, soft topping that’s slightly crisp at the edges and luxuriously tender in the middle.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, church potluck, bake sale, or just want to treat your family, this easy recipe delivers a nostalgic, decadent dessert with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients and easy prep
- Rich, buttery flavor with a soft center
- Perfect for serving a crowd
- Classic Southern comfort food
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, unprepared)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust
In a large bowl, combine the dry yellow cake mix, egg, and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
4. Assemble the Bars
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set. The middle should still jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Cut into squares and serve plain or lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
Alt Text for Image
Close-up of a square Ooey Gooey Bar showing a golden, buttery crust and soft, shiny cream cheese topping.
Tips and Variations
- Do not overbake. The center should be slightly underdone for a true gooey texture.
- Chill before slicing for neater bars.
- Add mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or drizzle with caramel for extra flavor.
- Try using a chocolate or spice cake mix for variation.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Lasts up to 1 week. Best if chilled before slicing.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Recommended Baking Tools and Ingredients
- Nonstick 9×13-inch baking dish
- Offset spatula for even spreading
- Hand mixer or stand mixer for cream cheese mixture
- High-quality powdered sugar and real vanilla extract
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Reader Reviews
“This is my go-to dessert for any gathering. It never fails!” – Lisa M.
“I made this for a bake sale, and they sold out in 15 minutes.” – Kevin J.
“Exactly like my grandma used to make.” – Cheryl T.
More Southern Dessert Favorites
- Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
- Coconut Cream Pie Bars
- Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Bars
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