Get ready to experience the most decadent, mouthwatering dessert that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! These Gooey Butter Cake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Imagine a dessert so rich and luxurious that it transforms an ordinary cake mix into a heavenly treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that will have friends and family asking for seconds (and thirds)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a soft dough forms, using a spatula or electric mixer on low speed.
- Press the cake mix dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, compact base layer. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to ensure an even surface.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add the 2 additional eggs to the cream cheese and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed to prevent sugar from flying out of the bowl.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until the filling is completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared cake mix base, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should still have a slight jiggle but not be liquid.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. The cake will settle and become more set as it cools.
- Once cooled, dust the top with additional powdered sugar if desired. Cut into 16 equal bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened for the smoothest filling possible. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Don't Overmix: When preparing the base layer, mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and tender.
- Check for Doneness: The edges should be golden, and the center should have a slight jiggle but not be liquid. Overbaking can make the bars dry and less gooey.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. This helps them set properly and develop their signature texture.
- Storage Secret: These bars actually taste even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make them in advance!
- Serving Tip: For the most luxurious experience, let the bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- Optional Variations: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the base or top with fresh berries for an extra flavor twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 252kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
