Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Bars

Introduction

Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavors of a classic dessert with a soft, gooey center. These bars have a slightly crisp top, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. Once you take a bite, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Yellow cake mix: 400g

Unsalted butter, melted: 100g

Large egg: 1

Cream cheese, softened: 250g

Large eggs: 2

Vanilla extract: 5ml

Powdered sugar: 500g

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 12 bars

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C and grease a 22×33 cm baking dish.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Mix until a dough forms and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining two eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

4. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined and smooth.

5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.

6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown but the center is slightly gooey.

7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Serve and enjoy!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 22×33 cm (9×13 inch) baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and one large egg. Mix until a dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth. Add the remaining two large eggs and 5ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar (500g), beating until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Layers

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish. Spread it evenly to cover the crust.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown but the center remains slightly gooey.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be served as a delightful dessert at gatherings, parties, or any special occasion.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Variation Ideas

Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.

Allergy Note

Be cautious of any allergies related to dairy and gluten, as this recipe contains cream cheese and cake mix.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator

To extend the freshness, you can refrigerate the bars for up to 1 week. Make sure they are well covered to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ooey Gooey Butter Bars slightly warmed or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce and sprinkle with nuts or fresh fruit. These bars also make a great addition to any dessert platter for gatherings or celebrations.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 bar, based on 12 servings):
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 10g
– Cholesterol: 60mg
– Sodium: 150mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 45g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 30g
– Protein: 4g

Please note that nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Ingredient Substitutions

– **Yellow Cake Mix:** You can use a gluten-free cake mix if you need a gluten-free option.
– **Unsalted Butter:** Substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a non-dairy option.
– **Cream Cheese:** For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt.
– **Eggs:** For an egg substitute, consider using 1/4 cup applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
– **Vanilla Extract:** Almond extract or any other flavoring can be used for a different taste profile.

Cook Techniques

Prepping the Baking Dish

Grease the baking dish adequately to prevent sticking. You can use butter or non-stick spray for this purpose.

Mixing the Dough

Combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until a cohesive dough forms. Mix thoroughly to ensure proper consistency.

Pressing the Crust

Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the baking dish using your hands or a spatula, ensuring a uniform thickness for even baking.

Beating the Cream Cheese

Soften the cream cheese for easier mixing. Beat it until it’s completely smooth to avoid lumps in the filling.

Incorporating Ingredients

Add the eggs and vanilla to the cream cheese gradually, mixing thoroughly to achieve a smooth and creamy filling before adding the powdered sugar.

Baking the Bars

Bake until the top is a golden brown and the center is still slightly gooey. It’s essential not to overbake to maintain the ooey-gooey texture.

Cooling and Cutting

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This helps maintain their structure and prevents them from falling apart.

FAQ

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mix, but the dessert’s texture and flavor may vary.

How should I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I serve with these bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown top and a slightly jiggly center. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.

Conclusion

These Paula Deen Ooey Gooey Butter Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a unique texture. With their combination of a gooey center and a slightly crisp surface, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home, these bars promise satisfaction with every bite.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars

Substitute the yellow cake mix with chocolate chip cookie mix for a deliciously chocolaty twist.

Lemon Blueberry Gooey Bars

Add fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing flavor.

Pecan Praline Butter Bars

Incorporate chopped pecans and a sprinkle of brown sugar on top for a nutty praline flavor.

Mint Chocolate Chip Bars

Mix mint extract into the cream cheese filling and fold in mint chocolate chips for a festive treat.

Peanut Butter Swirl Bars

Add swirls of peanut butter into the cream cheese mixture for a delightful peanut butter and chocolate combination.