Description
Gooey Butter Cake Bars are a luscious and indulgent dessert featuring a buttery cake crust topped with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese layer. These bars have a perfectly gooey center and golden edges, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Make crust mixture: In a bowl, mix the yellow cake mix with melted butter until the texture is crumbly and well combined.
- Form crust: Press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased pan to create a firm crust layer.
- Beat cream cheese: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs and sugar: To the cream cheese, add the eggs, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, and beat the mixture until creamy and well combined.
- Incorporate remaining sugar: Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar, beating continuously until the filling is smooth and fully blended.
- Spread filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, ensuring a uniform layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until the edges are set and golden brown but the center remains slightly gooey for the perfect texture.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 bars and serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should stay slightly gooey for the best texture.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Cut bars with a warm knife for cleaner slices.
- Optional: sprinkle powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness before serving.
