Description
These Cream Cheese Gooey Bars feature a rich and buttery yellow cake base topped with a smooth, creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese. Baked to perfection, they offer a delightful combination of tender cake and luscious cream cheese filling, making them an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Base:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Dusting (Optional):
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting on top)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Base Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Stir the ingredients until well combined into a thick mixture.
- Form and Bake the Base: Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating the base layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the base is lightly golden and set.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: While the base bakes, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or whisk.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: To the cream cheese mixture, add the 2 eggs, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Beat everything together until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Layers: When the base is finished baking, remove it from the oven and pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the warm base, spreading it to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the Combined Layers: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and lightly golden. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares to ensure the layers firm up nicely.
- Optional Dusting: Before serving, lightly dust the tops with powdered sugar for a decorative and sweet finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and enjoy the gooey, creamy texture of these delightful dessert bars.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Make sure not to overbake the cream cheese layer to maintain its gooey consistency.
- Chilling the bars after baking helps with clean cuts and enhances flavor.
- These bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top before baking.
