Irresistible Ooey Gooey Bars

This indulgent dessert combines the simplicity of a cake mix crust with an irresistibly creamy, sweet filling that creates that perfect ooey-gooey texture everyone loves. The contrast between the slightly firm cookie-like base and the soft, melt-in-your-mouth topping makes these bars absolutely unforgettable.

These Ooey Gooey Bars have been my secret weapon for last minute gatherings for years. I first made them when I needed a quick dessert for unexpected guests and they disappeared so quickly that I now keep the ingredients on hand at all times.

• For the Crust Yellow cake mix provides the perfect cookie like base without measuring multiple dry ingredients
• Room temperature butter ensures proper incorporation with the cake mix
• Egg binds the crust together and provides structure

• For the Gooey Filling Room temperature cream cheese creates that signature tangy richness
• Powdered sugar gives the filling its sweet gooey texture without being grainy
• Vanilla extract adds depth of flavor and warmth
• Eggs create structure while maintaining that soft center

How To Make Ooey Gooey Bars

Prepare the oven and pan

Heat your oven to 325°F to ensure gentle even baking that wont burn the delicate filling. Thoroughly spray your 9x13 baking dish with non stick cooking spray making sure to coat the sides as well as the bottom to prevent sticking.

Mix the crust

Combine the cake mix butter and egg using a fork. The mixture will appear dry and clumpy which is exactly what you want. This texture allows you to press it firmly into the pan creating a solid foundation for the gooey layer.

Form the base

Press the crust mixture into the prepared pan covering the bottom completely and bringing it slightly up the sides. Use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer with a slight rim around the edges to contain the filling.

Prepare the gooey filling

First set aside ¼ cup of powdered sugar for the final dusting. Beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding eggs and vanilla. This prevents lumps in your filling. Gradually incorporate the remaining powdered sugar until you achieve a creamy consistency.

Assemble and bake

Pour the gooey filling over the prepared crust ensuring even coverage. Bake at 325° for 40 45 minutes watching for that perfect golden brown top. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven.

Finish with flair

Allow the bars to cool for 10 minutes before dusting with the reserved powdered sugar. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly while still warm enough for the powdered sugar to adhere beautifully. Let cool completely before cutting for clean slices.

The cream cheese is truly what makes these bars special. While some similar recipes use different fillings, I find the tangy richness of cream cheese provides the perfect counterpoint to the sweet powdered sugar. My grandmother first taught me this recipe, and we would always sneak small pieces while they were still warm, though they definitely slice more neatly when fully cooled.

Storage Instructions

These Ooey Gooey Bars keep beautifully at room temperature for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. The texture becomes a bit more firm when chilled, so I recommend letting refrigerated bars sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to restore that perfect gooey texture.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to different flavors. Try a chocolate cake mix with a teaspoon of espresso powder in the crust for a mocha version. Lemon lovers can use a lemon cake mix and add fresh lemon zest to both the crust and filling. For a holiday twist, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the filling and top with crushed candy canes instead of powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are divine on their own but can be elevated for special occasions. Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over the top dessert. For a stunning presentation, add fresh berries alongside each serving. The contrast of tart berries with the sweet bars creates a balanced flavor profile. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While the yellow cake mix creates a classic flavor profile, chocolate, white, or even lemon cake mix can work wonderfully. Each variation will give your bars a unique taste while maintaining that perfect gooey texture.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store Ooey Gooey Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months if wrapped well. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

→ Why did my filling sink to the bottom?

This typically happens if the crust wasn't properly compacted before adding the filling. Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the baking dish, creating an even layer that comes up slightly on the sides.

→ Can I add mix-ins to the filling?

Yes! Consider folding in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even fruit preserves to customize your bars. Add about 1/2 to 1 cup of mix-ins to the filling before pouring it over the crust.

→ How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The top should be golden brown and may still appear slightly jiggly in the center. The edges will set first, but the center should have a slight wobble. It will continue to set as it cools. Overbaking will result in a firmer, less gooey texture.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time for an event?

These bars are perfect for making ahead! In fact, they often taste better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Make them up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving.