Gooey Butter Cake Bars – St. Louis’ Famous Dessert, Simplified! 🍰✨


 

1. Make the Crust

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

  • Mix cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until a thick dough forms.

  • Press evenly into the pan.

2. Whip the Filling

  • In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.

  • Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.

  • Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring until fully combined.

3. Layer & Bake

  • Pour filling over the crust, spreading evenly.

  • Bake for 35-40 minutes (center should still jiggle slightly).

  • Cool completely before slicing (it firms as it cools!).

Pro Tips for Perfect Bars

🔥 Don’t overbake! The center should be wobbly but not liquid.
🍫 Chocolate lover’s twist – Sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
🍂 Pumpkin version – Replace ½ cup powdered sugar with ½ cup pumpkin purée + 1 tsp cinnamon.
💡 Clean cuts – Chill for 1 hour before slicing.

Serving Ideas

☕ Classic: Dust with extra powdered sugar.
🍓 Fruity: Top with fresh berries and whipped cream.
🍦 À la mode: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

❄️ Fridge: Keeps for 5 days (cover tightly).
⏳ Freeze: Slice and freeze for 3 months (thaw at room temp).

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