How to Make Chewy Gooey Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a thick dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid base layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Gooey Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
Step 4: Assemble
Carefully pour the gooey filling over the base layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes. The edges should be set and lightly golden, while the center remains slightly jiggly—that’s the key to a gooey texture.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan. As they cool, the center will firm up just enough while staying rich and chewy.
Tips for Perfect Chewy Gooey Bars
Don’t overbake—the center should look underdone when you remove it
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling
For clean slices, refrigerate the bars for 1 hour before cutting
Easy Variations to Try
Add chocolate chips or butterscotch chips to the filling
Sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving
Use different cake mix flavors like lemon or chocolate
A Dessert That Never Disappoints
Chewy Gooey Bars are the ultimate comfort dessert—simple, indulgent, and impossible to resist. They’re rich without being heavy, sweet without being overpowering, and always a crowd favorite.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these bars deliver exactly what their name promises: chewy edges, gooey centers, and pure dessert satisfaction in every bite.
