If you’re a fan of all things irresistibly rich, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth, get ready to fall head over heels for these Gooey Butter Cake Bars! With a soft yellow cake base and a luscious, creamy topping that’s nearly impossible to resist, this treat delivers the ultimate comfort in every bite. Best of all, you only need a few pantry-friendly ingredients and a little mixing magic to bring this decadent, classic American dessert to life—no fuss, just pure, unfiltered joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even the greatest desserts can come together with just a handful of ingredients, and these Gooey Butter Cake Bars prove it! Each component lends its special touch, whether that’s creating a buttery flavor, adding structure, or building that signature gooey bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): Provides a tender, flavorful base with the perfect hint of vanilla and butter.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and ensures the crust is soft yet sturdy.
- Large egg (1, for the crust): Binds the crust ingredients together and adds a little lift.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Transforms into a creamy, dreamy topping with just the right amount of tang.
- Large eggs (2, for the topping): Give the topping its delicate, custardy texture and help everything set.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the sweetness and brightens up the creamy filling.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the topping and gives it a billowy, cloud-like consistency.
How to Make Gooey Butter Cake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking. Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a generous greasing with butter or non-stick spray—this simple step ensures those delectable bars release with a flawless edge later on.
Step 2: Mix the Crust
Grab a medium bowl and combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 large egg. Stir everything together with a spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. It might look a little thick and sticky—that’s exactly what you’re after! Press this dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish, making sure to get all the way to the corners.
Step 3: Make the Gooey Topping
In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s gorgeously smooth and free from lumps. Add in the 2 eggs and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture is velvety. Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, beating on low to avoid sugar clouds, then increase the speed until the topping becomes thick, glossy, and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour that luscious cream cheese topping over the crust, then use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Watch for golden edges—the center should stay just a bit wobbly to keep that trademark gooeyness. Don’t be tempted to overbake!
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan where the magic can set. For the cleanest cuts, slide the pan into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Once ready, use a sharp knife to slice into 20 squares—and maybe dust the tops with a touch of extra powdered sugar for good measure!
How to Serve Gooey Butter Cake Bars
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of powdered sugar across the tops adds the perfect finishing touch, accentuating the creamy layer and bringing out that irresistible bakery-style charm. For an extra pop of color, try a few fresh berries on the side or a drizzle of melted chocolate for the true sweet tooth.
Side Dishes
These bars are undeniably rich, so pairing them with something light is always a win. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes each bite feel like a special occasion. Fresh fruit—like sliced strawberries or juicy peaches—also balances everything out beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Gooey Butter Cake Bars into a dessert board centerpiece by cutting them into bite-sized cubes and serving alongside assorted fruits, chocolates, and nuts. Hosting a brunch? Stack the bars on a pretty platter or nestle them into cupcake liners for a grab-and-go sweet. For holidays, tuck them into festive tins for a heartfelt homemade gift!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your bars as fresh as possible, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The unique texture stays perfect either way, so you can munch at your leisure.
Freezing
Gooey Butter Cake Bars freeze beautifully! Once cooled, slice them and arrange the bars in a single layer with parchment paper between each layer. Store them in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature, and they’re just as dreamy as fresh.
Reheating
If you love your bars a little warm, simply microwave an individual piece for about 10–15 seconds. This softens the topping and brings back that just-baked gooey magic—just be sure not to overheat, as you don’t want to cook the delicate layers.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for the crust?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, you can experiment with white, butter, or even lemon cake mix for a fun twist. Each version creates its own unique vibe while preserving that signature gooey center.
Do my Gooey Butter Cake Bars have to be refrigerated?
They don’t have to be, but it’s a great option if you want them to last a few extra days or prefer a slightly firmer bar. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration will help them hold their shape.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for golden, slightly crisp edges with a center that still jiggles just a touch when you give the pan a gentle shake. The bars will continue to set as they cool outside the oven.
Can these bars be made gluten free?
Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix! The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free, so everyone can enjoy this gooey treat.
Is there a way to make these bars less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the powdered sugar in the topping by about 1/2 to 1 cup. The texture will remain luscious, with a mellowed-out sweetness that still delights.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Gooey Butter Cake Bars have remained a beloved favorite for generations—they’re simple, satisfying, and outrageously good every single time. Whether you’re serving them at a party or sneaking a piece with your afternoon coffee, don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them on repeat. Give them a try, and let them work their gooey, buttery magic!
