Ooey Gooey Bars

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until fully combined and creamy.
3. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the shortbread base, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle chocolate chips and optional nuts evenly over the cream cheese layer.
2. Drizzle melted butter over the top. This extra touch makes the bars even more rich and gooey.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center may still look slightly soft, but it will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
2. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ooey Gooey Bars are best served at room temperature, when the layers are perfectly soft and melt-in-your-mouth. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter and cream cheese are softened for smooth mixing.
• Don’t overbake: A slightly underbaked center gives that signature ooey gooey texture.
• Customize toppings: Swap chocolate chips for caramel bits, white chocolate, or dried fruit for a unique twist.
• Cutting clean squares: Chill the bars for 30 minutes before cutting to prevent sticking and crumbling.

These Ooey Gooey Bars are a perfect balance of buttery, creamy, and sweet. They’re a showstopper for parties, a comforting treat for a cozy night in, or a delightful homemade gift. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

If you want, I can also create a shorter, extra gooey version with a marshmallow layer that makes them even stickier and more decadent.

Do you want me to make that version too?