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Gooey Butter Cake Bars Recipe

4.7 from 146 reviews

Gooey Butter Cake Bars are a decadent, rich dessert featuring a buttery cake base topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base

  • 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Topping

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges for easy removal later.
  2. Prepare Cake Base: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to beat until well combined.
  3. Press Cake Mixture: Spread the cake mixture evenly into the parchment-lined baking dish. Spray the back of a spoon with nonstick cooking spray and press the mixture firmly to create an even layer.
  4. Make Cream Cheese Topping: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, remaining 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract using a hand mixer until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base and spread with a spatula. Place the baking dish on the middle oven rack and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the topping is set and edges are lightly golden.
  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper. Cut into bars and serve.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother topping layer.
  • Do not overbake; the center should be set but still slightly gooey for the best texture.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • You can dust the cooled bars with extra confectioners’ sugar for a pretty finish.

Keywords: gooey butter cake, cake bars, cream cheese dessert, easy dessert, baked dessert