Ooey Gooey Bars: Rich, Buttery, and Irresistibly Decadent

Ooey Gooey Bars, also known as “Gooey Butter Bars,” are a sinfully rich, melt-in-your-mouth dessert with a soft, buttery crust and a gooey, sweet cream cheese filling. With their golden top, custard-like center, and chewy edges, these bars are a favorite at potlucks, parties, bake sales—or anytime you’re craving something outrageously indulgent.

The best part? They’re made with simple pantry staples and come together quickly, yet taste like a bakery-quality treat.

 Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that signature texture and rich, buttery flavor:

For the Crust:

• Yellow Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25 oz) – The base of the crust; creates a chewy, slightly cakey bottom.

• Unsalted Butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted) – Adds moisture, richness, and binds the cake mix.

• Large Egg (1) – Adds structure and helps bind the crust.

For the Gooey Topping:

• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Creates a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet crust.

• Large Eggs (2) – Provide structure and richness to the gooey layer.

• Powdered Sugar (3½ to 4 cups) – Sweetens the topping and contributes to the smooth, glossy texture.

• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet depth.

• Pinch of Salt (optional) – Balances the sweetness.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until fully combined—a thick dough will form.

3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Filling

1. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.

2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy.

4. Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set but the center still jiggles slightly.

2. Do not overbake—you want that signature gooey texture!

🔥 Pro Tip: The bars will continue to firm up as they cool. A little jiggle = perfect gooeyness.

Step 4: Cool & Slice

1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

2. For cleaner cuts, chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours and wipe your knife between slices.

 Why These Bars Are So Loved

• One-bowl crust, one-bowl filling = super easy cleanup.

• Perfect contrast of chewy bottom and gooey top.

• Versatile – can be made with different cake mix flavors or mix-ins (like chocolate chips or fruit).

• Rich, buttery flavor that’s outrageously satisfying.

 Pro Tips for Gooey Success

• Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.

• For extra depth, try using brown butter in the crust.

• Want a chocolate version? Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix.

• Dust with extra powdered sugar just before serving for a bakery-style look.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve slightly chilled for a firmer texture or room temperature for extra gooeyness.

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

• Add fresh berries for a bright, tangy contrast.

•  Final Thoughts: A Gooey Dessert That Always Delivers

Ooey Gooey Bars are everything a dessert should be—sweet, rich, soft, and unforgettable. With their buttery crust and luscious cream cheese layer, they hit every note for a perfect treat. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or sneaking a square for yourself, these bars are guaranteed to impress.

Simple ingredients. Over-the-top flavor. Total crowd-pleaser. This is a dessert you’ll want to keep in heavy rotation.