Indulge in the lusciousness of these Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars, a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and butter with the ease of cake mix. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. With a buttery crust and a creamy filling that melts in your mouth, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. The use of cake mix simplifies the process, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The result is a decadent treat that is both gooey and creamy, with a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the optional additions of nuts and chocolate chips allow for customization, making this recipe versatile enough to suit any taste preference.
Introduction
If you’re looking for a dessert that is both simple and spectacular, look no further than these Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars. This recipe is a wonderful blend of convenience and indulgence, making it perfect for busy bakers who still want to impress. The combination of a buttery crust and a rich cream cheese filling creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please any palate. Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or simply enjoying them at home, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 (18.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – optional
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips – optional
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir the mixture until a crumbly dough forms, ensuring that all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Press into Pan
Take the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Make sure to create an even layer to form a solid base for your bars.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a velvety filling.
Step 4: Add Remaining Filling Ingredients
Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. If desired, fold in the optional chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Step 5: Pour Over Crust
Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Step 7: Cool
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is important to allow the filling to firm up before cutting into squares.
Serving Suggestions:
These Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips:
- Swirl: For a decorative touch, use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese filling before baking. This creates a marbled effect that looks beautiful.
- Different Cake Mix: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as lemon, spice, or chocolate, to create unique variations of this recipe.
- Add Fruit: For a fruity twist, fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries (like raspberries or blueberries) into the cream cheese filling before pouring it over the crust.
- Glaze: Once the bars have cooled, consider drizzling them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk for added sweetness.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
Approximately 50-60 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per bar (based on 20 servings)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Gooey Butter Cream Cheese Cake Mix Bars are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with decadent flavors. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress your friends and family with their rich, gooey filling and buttery crust. With the flexibility to customize the recipe to your liking, you can create a dessert that suits your taste preferences perfectly. So grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! You can experiment with various flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate, lemon, or spice, to create different variations of these bars. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. - Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly. - Can I add more toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a chocolate ganache for an extra touch of indulgence.
