The Golden Butter Ooey Gooey Bars

Some desserts have a way of taking over a room the moment they are set on the counter. You don’t need to announce them; the shimmering golden crust and the scent of warm vanilla do all the talking for you. Ooey Gooey Bars are exactly that kind of legendary treat.

This is the ultimate in Southern-style indulgence—a recipe that feels like it has been a staple at every bake sale, potluck, and family reunion for generations. With a sturdy, buttery cake base and a silky, cream cheese center that stays perfectly soft, it is a rare and beautiful victory for anyone who loves a dessert that lives up to its name.

They aren’t fancy or complicated to assemble. They are just incredibly good, and that is why a tray of these bars never lasts more than a few minutes once the coffee is poured.

Ingredients

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 large eggs (divided)

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1) Preheat Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.

2) Build the Base In a large bowl, combine the dry cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Mix until a stiff dough forms.

3) Press Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust.

4) Mix the Gooey Layer In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining two eggs and vanilla extract, beating until combined.

5) Sweeten Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until the filling is creamy and free of lumps.

6) Bake Pour the cream cheese filling over the cake base and spread it to the edges. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center still has a slight jiggle.

7) Cool and Serve Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This allows the “gooey” center to set properly.

Why This Recipe Works

• The cake mix base provides a dense, buttery foundation that supports the rich topping.

• Cream cheese creates a tangy, velvety center that balances the sweetness of the sugar.

• Baking until the center is slightly under-set ensures that signature “ooey gooey” texture.

• Simple pantry staples turn into a high-impact dessert with very little hands-on effort.

Tips for Best Results

• Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure the top layer is perfectly smooth and clump-free.

• Don’t overbake; the center should still look a little soft when you pull them out of the oven.

• For clean, professional-looking squares, use a plastic knife or wipe your metal knife between every cut.

• Sift the powdered sugar if it looks lumpy to keep the filling silky.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate or strawberry mix for a colorful twist.

• Stir in a cup of chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the top layer for added texture.

• Use a lemon cake mix and add a tablespoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy version.

• Dust the finished, cooled bars with an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store these bars? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They are delicious cold or at room temperature.

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they are actually better if made a day in advance as the flavors have more time to meld and the texture sets beautifully.

Can I freeze them? Absolutely. Wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Why did my bars turn out dry? This usually happens if they are overbaked. Start checking them at the 30-minute mark to ensure the center stays soft.

This is comfort food that knows exactly what it is supposed to be. I hope these buttery, decadent bars bring a little bit of sweetness to your next family gathering.