2. Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy and smooth.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
3. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, egg, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
4. Add the Remaining Crust
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cream cheese layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth—this creates the “ooey gooey” texture.
5. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
6. Cut and Serve
- Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan.
- Cut into squares or rectangles.
- Optional: sprinkle with chocolate chips or nuts, or drizzle with caramel or chocolate for extra indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Ooey Gooey Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened; this ensures a smooth, creamy filling.
- Don’t Overbake: The bars should still be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven; they firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Toppings: Add fruit, coconut flakes, or a swirl of Nutella for a personalized twist.
Ooey Gooey Bars are a timeless dessert that’s irresistibly soft and decadent. Once you try them, you’ll understand why their name perfectly captures the rich, melty experience in every bite.
If you want, I can also give you a shortcut version that makes them even faster but keeps them just as gooey. Do you want me to do that?
