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Ooey Gooey Bars

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Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe

These Ooey Gooey Bars are soft, fluffy, and slightly crispy on top, striking the perfect balance of sweetness. They’re quick to whip up, making them a favorite for potlucks or a cozy family dessert.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
  • 8 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 egg

For the Gooey Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 16 oz powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the dry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Set it aside.
  3. Make the Gooey Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the beaten eggs and continue beating for a minute or two until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the gooey texture.
  5. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Tips

  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Variation: You can add a variety of mix-ins to the gooey layer, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a swirl of fruit preserves for a twist on the classic recipe.

FAQs about Ooey Gooey Bars

1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

  • Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix to create a unique variation of these bars.

2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

  • The top should be lightly golden, and the center should still be slightly gooey but set. Avoid overbaking to maintain the gooey texture.
See also  Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

  • Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. Can I freeze Ooey Gooey Bars?

  • Yes, these bars freeze well. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

5. What can I add to the gooey layer for extra flavor?

  • You can add chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, toffee bits, or a swirl of jam to the gooey layer for an extra burst of flavor.

6. Do I need to refrigerate Ooey Gooey Bars?

  • While you can store them at room temperature for a couple of days, refrigerating them can extend their freshness up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigeration is a good option.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

  • Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

8. How can I make these bars gluten-free?

  • To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

9. What is the best way to cut these bars without making a mess?

  • Let the bars cool completely before cutting. For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

10. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

  • The powdered sugar is essential for the gooey layer’s texture, but you can reduce it slightly if needed. Keep in mind that altering the sugar content may affect the final texture and taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Ooey Gooey Bars are a beloved treat that everyone will enjoy. Easy to make, with ingredients you likely already have, they’re perfect for any gathering or just a sweet indulgence at home.

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