Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust (Bottom Layer):

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or homemade mix, see below)
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Gooey Topping (Filling Layer):

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for a nutty crunch)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (for extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for a citrus twist)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

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2. Make the Crust (Bottom Layer)

1. In a large bowl, mix together:
   • Cake mix
   • Melted butter
   • 1 egg
2. Stir until a thick dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.

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3. Make the Gooey Topping (Filling Layer)

1. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add eggs and vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour in melted butter and mix until combined.
5. (Optional) Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or lemon zest for extra flavor.

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4. Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the gooey topping mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
2. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the center still looks slightly soft and gooey.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing.

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5. Serve and Enjoy!

1. Cut into squares or bars.
2. Dust with extra powdered sugar if desired.
3. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

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Variations:

• Chocolate Ooey Gooey Bars: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake.
• Peanut Butter Version: Swirl in ½ cup peanut butter into the gooey layer.
• Pumpkin Ooey Gooey Bars: Add ½ cup pumpkin puree and a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
• Lemon Ooey Gooey Bars: Use lemon cake mix and add 2 tablespoons lemon juice to the filling.

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Storage Tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week for a firmer texture.
• Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw before serving!

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Pro Tips for the Best Ooey Gooey Bars:

• Do not overbake! The center should be soft and gooey.
• Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth filling.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to maintain their gooey texture.

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Now you have the ultimate Ooey Gooey Bars—buttery, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious! Would you like any adjustments to this recipe? 😊