– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– For the filling:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Optional Additions
– **For extra flavor:** Add chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or butterscotch chips to the filling for a sweet surprise.
– **For texture:** A sprinkle of crushed nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) can add a satisfying crunch.
– **For citrus notes:** A teaspoon of lemon zest in the filling adds a refreshing zing.
– **For color:** Consider adding a few tablespoons of fruit jam or preserves (like raspberry or strawberry) on top for a fun visual contrast.
Tips for Success
1. **Soften the cream cheese:** Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
2. **Don’t overmix the filling:** Overmixing can cause the filling to become too dense. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
3. **Even baking:** Bake the bars until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
4. **Let them cool:** For the best texture, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into them. This will ensure that the filling firms up properly.
Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly butter the pan.
2. **Make the crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Stir until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
3. **Make the filling:** In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and flour. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
4. **Assemble the bars:** Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set. It may still look a little soft in the middle, but it will firm up as it cools.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For extra sweetness, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Description
Ooey Gooey Bars are a delightful dessert characterized by a buttery, slightly crisp crust paired with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth filling. The filling has a custard-like texture that’s rich, creamy, and slightly chewy, making for an irresistible contrast against the firm base. With each bite, you experience layers of sweetness and a smooth, velvety consistency that truly lives up to its “ooey” and “gooey” namesake.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
*Note: The following values are approximate and based on 16 servings.*
– **Calories:** 250
– **Total Fat:** 15g
– **Saturated Fat:** 9g
– **Cholesterol:** 70mg
– **Sodium:** 150mg
– **Total Carbohydrates:** 30g
– **Dietary Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugars:** 20g
– **Protein:** 2g
Conclusion
Ooey Gooey Bars are an undeniably irresistible dessert that combines simple ingredients for a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re making them for a family get-together, a potluck, or a dessert buffet, these bars never fail to deliver both in taste and texture. Their buttery crust, sweet and creamy filling, and ease of preparation make them a perfect choice for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent dessert to share with friends or family, Ooey Gooey Bars are a perfect choice. Their rich flavor and chewy texture make them a standout dessert. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an even more indulgent experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While Ooey Gooey Bars are undeniably rich, there are ways to make them a little more health-conscious. Consider using a reduced-fat cream cheese or substituting part of the butter with applesauce to reduce the fat content. You could also swap out the cake mix for a gluten-free or sugar-free version, depending on dietary needs. Adding fresh fruit like berries can also introduce a bit of natural sweetness while providing vitamins and antioxidants. Embrace the balance of enjoying a sweet treat while being mindful of healthier options!
