Ooey Gooey Bars – The Melt-in-Your-Mouth Dessert You’ll Make Again and Again

Before I even get into the recipe, I have to say—thank you for being here. Whether you’re a long-time reader or just stumbled in while hunting for something sweet, I’m so glad you’re sharing this moment with me. Because what I’m about to share? It’s not just dessert—it’s a warm memory, a little piece of family tradition, and a whole lot of yum.

These Ooey Gooey Bars have been in my family for what feels like forever. My grandma had her version, my mom tweaked it, and now my kids make it all the time (with minimal supervision, seriously!). It’s one of those recipes that just sticks—because it’s so easy, so versatile, and just melts in your mouth with every bite.

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What Are Ooey Gooey Bars?

Ooey Gooey Bars—also known as “Gooey Butter Cake” or “Chess Bars” in some circles—are a soft, rich, and slightly crispy-on-top dessert made from cake mix, butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. They strike that perfect balance between dense and fluffy, sweet and buttery, and chewy and creamy.

The name says it all: ooey gooey, because the texture is pure bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why these bars have earned permanent status in my recipe box:

• 🧁 Only 6 ingredients!

• ⏱ Takes 10 minutes to prep

• 🍴 Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or “just because” days

• 👩‍🍳 Beginner-friendly (kid-friendly too!)

• 💛 Crowd-favorite every single time

What Do Ooey Gooey Bars Taste Like?

They’re sweet (but not cloying), buttery, and rich. The bottom layer is like a soft cookie-cake hybrid, and the top layer is creamy and custardy with that signature golden crust that cracks just slightly when you bite in. It’s like biting into sunshine, honestly.

Benefits of This Dessert (Yes, Benefits!)

• Quick to make – You’ll be mixing and baking in under 40 minutes.

• Minimal cleanup – One bowl for each layer, a 9×13 pan, and done.

• Adaptable – Use different cake mix flavors, add toppings, or swirl in something fun.

• Make ahead friendly – These store beautifully and taste even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (dry, not prepared)

• 8 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 egg

For the Gooey Layer:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 16 oz. powdered sugar (a whole 1 lb box!)

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking pan

• Mixing bowls

• Hand mixer or stand mixer

• Spatula

• Measuring cups/spoons

• Oven (preheated to 350°F)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Here’s where it gets fun:

• Use chocolate cake mix for a chocolate-lover’s version

• Add chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks on top

• Swirl in fruit preserves or Nutella before baking

• Sub gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option

• Try with red velvet or spice cake mix for a seasonal spin

How to Make Ooey Gooey Bars (Step-by-Step)

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