These Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars are a rich, buttery, and irresistibly sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and a cake mix base, they come together quickly and are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the melted butter and mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is set and golden brown. The center should still be slightly gooey.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Once cooled, slice into bars and serve. For a cleaner cut, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before slicing.
Cooking Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Use a chocolate cake mix for the base and add chocolate chips to the filling.
- Lemon Gooey Bars: Swap the yellow cake mix for lemon cake mix and add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cream cheese filling before baking for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! Yellow cake mix is classic, but vanilla, chocolate, or even spice cake mix works well in this recipe.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be set and lightly golden, while the center remains slightly gooey. Avoid overbaking to preserve the signature texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a gluten-free cake mix for the yellow cake mix to create a gluten-free version of these bars.
Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars are the ultimate dessert for those who love rich, sweet treats with minimal effort. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress everyone who takes a bite. With endless variations and a foolproof method, this recipe is a must-have in your dessert repertoire!
