Ooey Gooey Bars

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious, soft in the center, slightly crisp on top, and easy enough for kids to make—then you’ve just found it! These Ooey Gooey Bars are one of those timeless family recipes that never fail to bring smiles.

With a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake-like topping, and just the right amount of sweetness, they’re always the first treat to disappear at potlucks, bake sales, and holiday gatherings.

This recipe has been in my family for years under many names (chess squares, gooey butter bars, cream cheese bars—you name it!), but no matter what you call them, they’re irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: Just cake mix, butter, cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar.
Kid-friendly: Easy enough that even little bakers can help.
Crowd-pleaser: Always one of the first desserts gone at parties.
Make ahead: Bakes up beautifully and can be stored for days.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)
8 tablespoons butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Gooey Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs, beaten
16 oz powdered sugar (about 3 ¾ cups)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the dry cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until smooth and well blended. Press evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the filling: In a separate large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Add the eggs and mix until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully combined.
Assemble: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges are set and the top is lightly golden. (Do not overbake—these should stay soft and gooey in the center!)
Cool completely before slicing into squares.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t overbake: The middle should jiggle slightly when you pull them out. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Switch it up: Try chocolate or lemon cake mix for fun variations.
Holiday twist: Top with crushed peppermint or sprinkles for a festive look.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

FAQ

Can I freeze Ooey Gooey Bars?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely—chocolate, red velvet, or lemon work wonderfully.

Do these taste like cheesecake?
They have a rich, creamy texture like cheesecake, but lighter and sweeter.

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