Here’s a rich and indulgent recipe for Southern Gooey Butter Cake Bars – a beloved Southern classic with a buttery crust and a luscious cream cheese topping!
Southern Gooey Butter Cake Bars
🧈 Ingredients:
For the crust:
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1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg
For the gooey topping:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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3½ cups powdered sugar
🍰 Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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Make the crust:
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. -
Make the topping:
Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and melted butter. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fully combined and smooth. -
Assemble:
Pour the cream cheese topping over the crust and spread evenly. -
Bake:
Bake for 40–45 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly jiggly. Don’t overbake – it should be gooey! -
Cool & Slice:
Allow to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours before cutting into bars.
📝 Tips:
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For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt or a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
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Best stored chilled but served at room temperature for gooey texture.
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Swap yellow cake mix with spice cake mix for a fall twist!
