Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars Recipe

If there’s one treat I find myself baking again and again, it’s these irresistible Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars. Imagine a chewy, buttery crust made effortlessly with boxed cake mix, topped with the most luscious, melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese layer, and finished with a snow shower of powdered sugar. Every bite blends nostalgia with creaminess, and you won’t believe how quickly things come together in just under an hour. Whether you need an easy dessert to wow new friends, or you’re just in the mood for something truly decadent, these bars are the answer!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars so magical is this mix of humble ingredients, each doing its part to pack incredible flavor and ultra-gooey texture. You only need a handful, but every one counts, so let’s see who does what in this dreamy line-up!

• Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): This is our shortcut superstar, delivering light vanilla flavor, plus a sturdy-but-tender bar base every time.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Richness central! Butter moistens the crust and adds a delicious golden color.
• Large egg (1 for crust): Helps hold the base together, giving you a chewy-but-never-dry bite.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The silky hero that makes the top layer ultra creamy and craveable.
• Large eggs (2 for filling): They help set the filling just enough, keeping it soft but scoopable.
• Powdered sugar (3 3/4 cups, about 1 lb): Also known as confectioner’s sugar, it sweetens the filling and turns it gorgeously smooth.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): That extra pop of cozy, bakery-fresh aroma ties the filling together perfectly.

How to Make Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Let’s start by setting the stage: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give a 9×13-inch baking dish a good grease. I like to use a bit of butter or nonstick spray to ensure those gooey edges slide right out later. Lining with parchment is optional, but it can make lifting (and cutting) the bars a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Cake Mix Crust

In a medium bowl, combine your yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 large egg. Stir until it’s all moistened and clumpy—don’t worry if it looks thick, that’s the goal! Press this mix into your prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer. This base bakes up chewy and golden, giving the Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars their signature bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Gooey Cream Cheese Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Add in the remaining 2 eggs and vanilla, mixing until silky. Now comes the magic! Gradually beat in the powdered sugar. It’ll look thick and luscious—almost like a velvety cheesecake batter.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Pour the cream cheese mixture directly over the crust and spread it evenly to the edges. Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden edge and a center that jiggles just a touch when you shake the pan. It’ll set more as it cools—don’t overbake if you want maximum gooeyness!

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the pan cool completely—yes, I know it’s tough to wait, but the bars are easiest to cut when cool. When ready, dust with extra powdered sugar for a bakery-cute finish, slice into squares, and marvel at those gorgeous layers in your very own Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars!

How to Serve Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars

Garnishes

A little extra flourish is never a bad idea. A dusting of powdered sugar adds classic charm, but you can also drizzle with melted chocolate or a caramel swirl for extra indulgence. Fresh berries or a few thin lemon zest strips will brighten up your platter.

Side Dishes

Keep things festive by serving your bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want a contrast in flavor, tart fruits like raspberries or a handful of sliced strawberries pair beautiful with the sweet, creamy bars.

Creative Ways to Present

You don’t have to stick with a simple square! Try using a round cutter for “gooey butter bites,” or layer the bars with fresh fruit in parfait glasses for a pretty, trifle-inspired look. For parties, mini cupcake liners and cocktail picks transform each bar into a handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars tasting their best, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to one week. They stay deliciously moist, with just the right touch of gooey center!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these bars for up to two months! Arrange cut bars in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then store in a zip-top bag or sealed container with parchment between layers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars warm (and who could blame you?), just pop a serving in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This gently revives their gooey texture, making them taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for these bars?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is a classic, lemon, spice, or even chocolate cake mix add an exciting twist without any extra work. It’s a fun way to make your Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars suit any season or craving.

Do I need to refrigerate Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars?

If you won’t eat them within two days, I recommend popping them in the fridge to keep them fresh. The cream cheese filling holds up beautifully chilled (and actually tastes amazing cold, too).

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for edges that are golden and gently pulling away from the sides of the pan. The center should still look slightly jiggly—it will finish setting as it cools, giving you that irresistible gooey center!

Can I make these bars gluten free?

Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix and follow the recipe as written. The gooey cream cheese layer is naturally gluten free, so everyone can join in on the fun.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

Cool the bars completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. For extra neat edges, you can even refrigerate the bars before slicing—this makes them super easy to portion perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars, there’s no better time to bring a little extra sweetness into your kitchen. Grab your cake mix, cream cheese, and a buddy to help you lick the spoon—these bars always disappear fast, but the joy of sharing them with friends and family lingers long after. Happy baking!

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