Ooey Gooey Bars have become a beloved dessert that combines creamy richness with a buttery crust, creating a nostalgic treat that delights everyone. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these bars are sure to impress. With their soft and sticky texture and rich flavors, they are the perfect comfort food. Let’s dive into how to make these decadent dessert bars that will leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Ooey Gooey Bars

Here are just a few reasons why these ooey gooey dessert bars should be on your dessert table:

They are incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick dessert bar recipe!
The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a rich and gooey filling that melts in your mouth.
These bars are versatile; you can add nuts or chocolate for a customized treat.
They are a hit with both kids and adults, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings.
These fudgy treat squares are perfect for meal prep; they store well and taste delicious even after a few days.
They can be served warm or chilled, giving you options depending on your preference.

Ingredients for Ooey Gooey Bars

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups cream cheese
4 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
1 tablespoon orange zest
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Ooey Gooey Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Mix the crust ingredients by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 cup unsalted butter in a bowl.
Step 3: Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form a solid crust.
Step 4: Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s lightly golden.
Step 5: Blend the filling by mixing 1 cup unsalted butter, 2 cups cream cheese, and 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Incorporate 4 large eggs and 2 large egg yolks, adding each one individually.
Step 7: Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste, 1 tablespoon orange zest, and 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt.
Step 8: Pour the creamy filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 9: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Step 10: Cool the bars completely in the pan before slicing into squares to serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
Don’t overbake; the bars should be set with a slight jiggle in the center.
Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
These bars are best enjoyed after chilling for a few hours.

Best Ways to Serve Ooey Gooey Bars

Here are a few serving ideas:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable dessert.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Top with fresh berries to add a fruity twist to your rich and gooey treats.

How to Store and Reheat Ooey Gooey Bars

To keep your bars fresh, store them covered in the refrigerator. They can last up to one week. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or serve cold. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ooey Gooey Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Ooey Gooey Bars?

The secret lies in not overbaking the bars. You want a slight jiggle in the center to maintain their rich and gooey texture. This is crucial for achieving the perfect softness.

Can I make Ooey Gooey Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars actually taste better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. This makes them an ideal dessert to prepare in advance for gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ooey Gooey Bars?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling. Also, remember not to overmix the batter, which could lead to a dense texture instead of the desired ooey gooey consistency.

Variations of Ooey Gooey Bars You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

For chocolate lovers, try adding homemade gooey bars with chocolate by mixing chocolate chips into the filling.
Try ooey gooey bars with nuts by folding in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunch.
For a citrus twist, increase the orange zest or add lemon zest for a refreshing flavor.
Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to customize the taste.

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For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Chocolate Eclair Cake or Grandma Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies. You can also try Creamy Tuscan Scallops for a savory option.

For additional tips on baking, you might find this baking guide helpful.