Ooey gooey bars
**Introduction**
Ooey Gooey Bars are a decadent, sweet treat that combines a rich, buttery crust with a soft, gooey, and chewy filling. Often referred to as “cookie bars” or “gooey butter bars,” these bars are indulgent, sweet, and have a satisfying melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or as a sweet afternoon snack, Ooey Gooey Bars are beloved for their simplicity, addictive flavor, and easy preparation.
**Origin and Cultural Significance**
Ooey Gooey Bars have roots in American home baking, with a strong following in the Midwest and Southern United States. The bars are a modern variation of the classic “gooey butter cake,” which is said to have originated in St. Louis, Missouri, in the 1930s. Gooey butter cake was an accidental creation by a baker who mis-measured the ingredients, resulting in a deliciously dense and gooey texture. The Ooey Gooey Bar takes this concept and transforms it into a more portable, bar-style treat, allowing for easier sharing and serving.
**Ingredients and Quantities**
To make a batch of Ooey Gooey Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
– **For the crust:**
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– **For the filling:**
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
**Optional Additions**
– **For extra flavor:** Add chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or butterscotch chips to the filling for a sweet surprise.
– **For texture:** A sprinkle of crushed nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) can add a satisfying crunch.
– **For citrus notes:** A teaspoon of lemon zest in the filling adds a refreshing zing.
– **For color:** Consider adding a few tablespoons of fruit jam or preserves (like raspberry or strawberry) on top for a fun visual contrast.
**Tips for Success**
1. **Soften the cream cheese:** Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
2. **Don’t overmix the filling:** Overmixing can cause the filling to become too dense. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
3. **Even baking:** Bake the bars until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
4. **Let them cool:** For the best texture, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into them. This will ensure that the filling firms up properly.
**Instructions**
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