Cream Cheese Gooey Bars Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s outrageously simple yet utterly irresistible, Cream Cheese Gooey Bars are about to become your newest obsession. Imagine a buttery yellow cake base topped with a cloud of sweet, tangy cream cheese filling, all baked to gooey, golden perfection. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just an afternoon pick-me-up, this easy treat brings nostalgia and excitement to every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, Cream Cheese Gooey Bars are guaranteed to steal the show and win hearts with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, comforting flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are the handful of pantry staples that make Cream Cheese Gooey Bars so magical. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the signature chewy base and creamy, luscious top layer.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces): The foundation for the soft, buttery crust and a secret shortcut for easy prep.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Adds rich flavor and ensures the crust is perfectly tender and moist.
- Large eggs (3, divided): Two eggs go into the creamy layer for structure and silkiness, while one binds the cake base.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla brings warmth and rounds out the sweetness of both the crust and topping.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The star ingredient of the gooey layer, providing tang, body, and that irresistible creamy bite.
- Powdered sugar (3¾ cups): Sweetens the cream cheese layer and creates that classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Make Cream Cheese Gooey Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray, making sure to get into the corners. This ensures the bars release easily and stay perfectly intact once baked.
Step 2: Make the Cake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, one egg, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Don’t worry if it seems a bit sticky — that’s exactly what you want for a chewy, tender base. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, using your fingertips or the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Gooey Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until completely smooth and creamy. Add the remaining two eggs and blend until well incorporated. Now, gradually beat in the powdered sugar, mixing until the filling is light, fluffy, and lump-free. This step is key for achieving that signature gooey top!
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still has a gentle jiggle. Don’t overbake — the gooeyness is what makes Cream Cheese Gooey Bars so special!
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. For the cleanest cuts, pop the pan in the fridge for about an hour before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving a breeze. Cut into squares and get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Gooey Bars
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, dust the tops of your Cream Cheese Gooey Bars with a generous sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a few fresh berries can take them to the next level. Even a pinch of lemon zest adds a bright, fresh twist against the rich creamy filling.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert plate, or serve them alongside hot coffee or cold milk for an afternoon treat. For a dessert buffet, they shine next to fresh fruit salad or even a platter of salty nuts for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the bars on a tiered dessert tray for a party, or wrap individual squares in parchment and tie with ribbon for adorable homemade gifts. For a crowd, cut the bars into bite-sized cubes and skewer with toothpicks for easy, mess-free snacking at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cream Cheese Gooey Bars keep beautifully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The texture actually improves as they chill, making them even more luscious and sliceable the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange fully cooled bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and they’ll taste just as decadent as the day you baked them.
Reheating
If you prefer your Cream Cheese Gooey Bars slightly warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back that irresistible gooey texture and makes the flavors even more inviting. Just be careful not to overheat, as the filling should remain creamy rather than runny.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for Cream Cheese Gooey Bars?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic and delicious, feel free to experiment with white, lemon, or even spice cake mix for fun flavor variations. Each type Dessert.
Why is my cream cheese layer lumpy?
Lumpy filling often means the cream cheese wasn’t fully softened before mixing. For the smoothest results, let your cream cheese sit out at room temperature for at least an hour before beating. This step makes all the difference in texture.
Do Cream Cheese Gooey Bars need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the dairy-rich filling, it’s best to store these bars in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh, firm, and safe to eat for several days when chilled properly.
How do I get clean slices when cutting the bars?
For picture-perfect bars, cool them completely and refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between each cut for neat, tidy squares.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
You sure can! Use two 9×13-inch pans, or one large sheet pan if you have it. Watch the baking time, as the bars may need a few extra minutes depending on pan depth and oven variations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dessert that combines ease, nostalgia, and total indulgence, Cream Cheese Gooey Bars are calling your name. Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “gooey.” Happy baking!
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Cream Cheese Gooey Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 20 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream Cheese Gooey Bars combine a buttery yellow cake mix crust with a rich, fluffy cream cheese topping for a delectably sweet and gooey dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3¾ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, one egg, and vanilla extract until a thick dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust layer.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining two eggs and mix well until incorporated. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, continuing until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner cuts and firmer texture, refrigerate before slicing into 20 bars.
Notes
- The bars will firm up as they cool, making them easier to slice.
- Refrigerate before slicing for clean, neat cuts.
- Optional: dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate for extra sweetness and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
