Go Back

Ooey Gooey Butter Bars

These Ooey Gooey Butter Bars combine a buttery cake mix crust with a rich cream cheese filling to create a dessert that is both indulgent and surprisingly simple to make. The unique contrast of textures—with a firm, golden crust and a delectably gooey center—ensures every bite is a treat, perfect for potlucks or a special snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
For the filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Oven
  • Parchment paper (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and removal.
  2. For the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg. Mix until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring there are no gaps.
  3. For the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated. Slowly drizzle in the 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter while continuing to beat, then gradually add the 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture becomes creamy and thick.
  4. Pour the creamy filling over the crust, spreading it evenly to reach all corners of the pan.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The edges should turn golden and set while the center remains slightly gooey. Do not overbake; a little wobble in the center is perfect as the bars will continue to set while cooling.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Notes

These Ooey Gooey Butter Bars are incredibly versatile and forgiving. For best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to create a smooth filling and avoid overbaking the bars so they retain that signature gooey center. You can experiment with different cake mix flavors, or add mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.