Ooey gooey bars are a delightful dessert that combines a chewy crust with a rich and creamy filling. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Here’s everything you need to know to make the perfect ooey gooey bars at home.
What Are Ooey Gooey Bars?
Ooey gooey bars are a layered dessert consisting of a buttery crust and a creamy topping, baked to perfection. The result is a dessert that’s crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. Popular in Southern cuisine, these bars often include ingredients like cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar to create their iconic texture and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make ooey gooey bars, you’ll need the following:
For the Crust:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make removal easier.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Create the Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For clean edges, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Tips for the Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t Overbake: The center should remain slightly soft when you remove the bars from the oven. Overbaking will make them less gooey.
- Add Toppings: For an extra touch, sprinkle the top with chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts before baking.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars
Swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate one and add cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
Lemon Ooey Gooey Bars
Use a lemon cake mix and add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Bars
Mix 1/2 cup of peanut butter into the filling and top with crushed peanuts for a nutty delight.
Why Ooey Gooey Bars Are the Perfect Dessert
Ooey gooey bars are versatile, easy to make, and universally loved. Their texture and flavor make them a hit at any gathering, and the recipe can easily be customized to suit different tastes. Plus, they’re a great make-ahead dessert, as they taste even better the next day.
Storing and Freezing Ooey Gooey Bars
Storing:
Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing:
Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
Ooey gooey bars pair wonderfully with beverages like coffee, milk, or hot chocolate. For an elevated experience, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Final Thoughts
Making ooey gooey bars at home is a simple yet rewarding baking project. With their irresistible texture and flavor, these bars are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, ooey gooey bars are always a crowd-pleaser.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking these delicious ooey gooey bars today!