There’s something undeniably comforting about a dessert that melts in your mouth and leaves behind a sweet, buttery trail of happiness. That’s exactly what you get with Ooey Gooey Butter Bars—a rich, soft, and slightly chewy treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I first discovered this recipe at a Southern-style potluck, and after one bite, I immediately asked for the recipe. It’s now one of those desserts I always have ready for holidays, potlucks, or whenever I want something easy and guaranteed to impress.
Originating from St. Louis, this old-fashioned treat has won hearts across the country for its simple ingredients and outrageously delicious texture. The base is a soft yellow cake crust, and the top layer is a sweet cream cheese filling that bakes into a slightly crisp edge and gooey center. The result? A dessert bar so indulgent, you’ll understand exactly why it’s called “ooey gooey.”
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a no-fuss dessert that delivers big on flavor and texture, these bars are a must-make.
- Just 7 ingredients
- Ready in under an hour
- Perfect for sharing (or not)
- Kid-friendly and crowd-approved
- Great for holidays, parties, or weekday cravings
- Store beautifully for make-ahead treats
Plus, you can customize the base or filling for seasonal twists—think lemon zest, chocolate chips, or even crushed Oreos.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 16 oz powdered sugar (about 3½ to 4 cups), divided
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls (one for crust, one for filling)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (optional, for powdered sugar garnish)
How to Make Ooey Gooey Butter Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one egg, and softened butter. Mix until a soft, doughy batter forms. It will be thick but spreadable.
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the bottom using your hands or the back of a spoon. This is your golden base.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Slowly add the powdered sugar in batches—reserving about ¼ cup for garnish—and continue mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer It
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust layer and spread it evenly with a spatula. The top should be smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes. The edges will be golden and slightly puffed, while the center remains soft and wobbly—that’s the signature “gooey” texture.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. The center will settle as it cools. Once cooled, dust the top with the reserved powdered sugar using a sifter or fine mesh strainer.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Cut into 24 squares. Serve as-is or chilled—both versions are divine!
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Don’t Overbake: The center should still jiggle slightly when you remove the pan from the oven. It will firm up as it cools.
- For Extra Flavor: Add lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for a subtle twist.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix mini chocolate chips into the filling or use chocolate cake mix for the crust.
- Festive Flair: Swirl in raspberry jam or top with crushed peppermint during holidays.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can dress them up for special occasions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and berries
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce
- Package individually for gifting during the holidays
They’re perfect for birthday parties, office treats, holiday cookie exchanges, or anytime you’re craving a sugar fix.
How to Store and Freeze
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator:
For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5–6 days. Let come to room temp before serving or enjoy chilled.
Freezer:
Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temp for an hour.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Ooey Gooey Butter Bars have become a beloved staple across kitchens in America—they’re outrageously good, ridiculously easy, and unapologetically indulgent. The soft cake crust paired with the creamy, sweet, gooey topping is a match made in dessert heaven.
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to something special, these bars never disappoint. Keep this recipe on standby for last-minute gatherings, sweet cravings, or holiday prep—you’ll be glad you did. Once you make them, don’t be surprised if they become a frequently requested treat in your home!
Ooey gooey butter bars
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg
- 1 stick ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 16 oz powdered sugar about 3½ to 4 cups, divided
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one egg, and softened butter. Mix until a soft, doughy batter forms. It will be thick but spreadable.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the bottom using your hands or the back of a spoon. This is your golden base.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Slowly add the powdered sugar in batches—reserving about ¼ cup for garnish—and continue mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer It
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust layer and spread it evenly with a spatula. The top should be smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes. The edges will be golden and slightly puffed, while the center remains soft and wobbly—that’s the signature “gooey” texture.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. The center will settle as it cools. Once cooled, dust the top with the reserved powdered sugar using a sifter or fine mesh strainer.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
- Cut into 24 squares. Serve as-is or chilled—both versions are divine!
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