If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines the nostalgic charm of cake mix convenience with the creamy decadence of cream cheese, then you’re absolutely going to adore this Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe. These bars deliver a perfect balance of a slightly crisp buttery crust and an irresistibly luscious, gooey filling that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a casual get-together or a special occasion, they redefine simple homemade indulgence with flavors that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the delightful texture and flavor of these bars. Each component is straightforward yet essential, contributing to that perfect gooey center and buttery base you expect from this recipe.
- Yellow cake mix: This classic base adds a tender crumb and a golden hue that’s inviting and comforting.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps bind the crust while keeping flavors pure and balanced.
- Cream cheese, softened: Gives the filling its creamy, tangy, and luscious texture that sets these bars apart.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer evenly without overpowering the other flavors.
- Egg: Adds structure and helps the filling set perfectly when baked.
- Vanilla extract: Brings a subtle warmth and depth to the gooey filling.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): A delicate finishing touch for an elegant look and a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare your pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to have the oven ready to go so your bars bake evenly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper for an easy release later.
Step 2: Make the crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with the melted butter. Stir together until the mixture forms a crumbly dough that holds together when pressed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a sturdy yet tender crust that will support the creamy filling.
Step 3: Prepare the filling
In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat the ingredients until completely smooth and creamy with no lumps. This silky filling is the heart of the Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe, promising rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in your pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even layer. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You want the top to be set with a light golden color but still soft and gooey inside—that perfect gooey texture is what makes these bars so magical.
Step 5: Cool and serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to help the filling set firmly, which makes cutting neat squares a breeze. If you like, dust the top with powdered sugar for a pretty, sweet finishing touch before serving.
How to Serve Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar or add fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully. For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce to elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
These bars are decadent enough to enjoy on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a serving of fresh fruit salad. A cup of hot coffee or a creamy latte complements their richness and makes for a cozy pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe on a festive platter for brunch or cut into bite-sized pieces for a crowd-pleasing dessert buffet. You can also layer them with whipped cream and fruit in parfait glasses for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for about 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and gooey texture.
Freezing
If you want to save these bars for later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen bars stay delicious for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked gooeyness, warm your bars in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 to 10 minutes. This will bring back the creamy softness without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, you can experiment with white, butter, or even spice cake mixes to add unique twists to your Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe.
Can I substitute cream cheese with a lighter option?
You can try reduced-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it might slightly affect the richness and gooey texture that make these bars so irresistible.
Is it necessary to use melted butter for the crust?
Melted butter helps bind the cake mix into a cohesive crust and contributes to tenderness and flavor, so it’s best not to skip or substitute it with oils for similar results.
How do I know when the bars are fully baked?
Look for a set top with light golden edges. The center should still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan—this ensures that gooey, creamy filling characteristic.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, but you’ll need to use a gluten-free cake mix to maintain the right consistency and flavor in your Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels like a warm hug, and these Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe do exactly that. Easy to whip up, wonderfully rich, and incredibly satisfying, they’re sure to become a new favorite staple in your recipe collection. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate!
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Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring a buttery cake crust topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese filling. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a sweet treat anytime, these bars offer a luscious texture and a delicious balance of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and melted unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly but can hold together when pressed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust base.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Spread it gently using a spatula for a smooth surface. Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, then slice into 24 bars and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filing without lumps.
- Do not overbake; the bars should be set but still gooey in the center.
- If using parchment paper, leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Powdered sugar dusting is optional but adds a nice decorative touch.
