The Ultimate Gooey Butter Bars Recipe

Introduction

Gooey Butter Bars are a rich, decadent dessert that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. With a buttery crust and a creamy, almost custard-like filling, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. This dessert is beloved for its unique texture—soft, sweet, and irresistibly gooey. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging in a sweet tooth moment, these bars never fail to impress.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Gooey Filling:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Slowly pour in the melted butter and sprinkle in the salt. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling mixture over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly jiggly.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing

Method for Making Gooey Butter Bars

Preparation:

Gather Ingredients: Measure all the ingredients and ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mise en Place: Set up your tools, including mixing bowls, an electric mixer (or whisk), a spatula, and a sieve for sifting powdered sugar.

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles damp sand.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan using the back of a spoon or your fingers to form an even layer. Ensure no gaps or uneven spots.

Step 2: Prepare the Gooey Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Gradually sift in the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent clumping and minimize mess.
Slowly pour in the melted butter and add the salt, mixing until the filling is thick, creamy, and homogeneous.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the gooey filling over the prepared crust in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring the filling reaches all corners.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, while the center remains slightly jiggly—it will firm up as it cools.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely to room temperature. For cleaner slicing, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper.
Use a sharp knife to slice into 16 squares or your preferred serving size. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade with a damp towel between slices.
Serve dusted with powdered sugar for a classic finish or topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel for a modern twist.

History

Gooey Butter Bars are a derivative of Gooey Butter Cake, a St. Louis specialty that dates back to the 1930s. Legend has it that a baker accidentally added too much butter to a cake recipe, creating a gooey, rich dessert. Over time, the treat became a cultural icon in the region, with variations popping up nationwide.

Benefits

Comfort Food: These bars provide an instant mood boost.
Party Favorite: Easy to transport and serve, they’re always a hit at gatherings.
Customizable: You can add a drizzle of caramel, sprinkle of nuts, or even a layer of fruit preserves for a unique twist

Mood Booster:
The rich sweetness of these bars can enhance your mood and provide comfort during stressful times. Desserts, in moderation, are known to trigger the release of “happy hormones” like serotonin.
Perfect for Sharing:
These bars are an excellent choice for social gatherings, potlucks, or family events. Their shareable nature strengthens bonds over a delicious treat.
Customizable for Healthier Options:

Substitute some ingredients for lighter versions, such as reduced-fat cream cheese or coconut sugar, to make them slightly healthier without compromising flavor.
Add a layer of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, for extra nutrients.

Energy Source:
Gooey Butter Bars, though a dessert, provide quick energy due to their carbohydrate content, making them a great occasional indulgence when you need a boost.
Rich in Calcium:
The cream cheese and butter provide small amounts of calcium, which supports healthy bones and teeth.
Encourages Creativity in the Kitchen:
Making these bars allows for creativity by adding your favorite mix-ins, like caramel drizzle, pecans, or even chocolate chips. Baking together can also be a fun bonding activity.
Satisfies Sweet Cravings:
A small piece can satisfy those nagging dessert cravings, potentially helping you avoid overindulging in more calorie-dense options.
Stress Reliever:
Baking is known for its therapeutic benefits. The process of measuring, mixing, and creating these bars can be a relaxing and rewarding experience.

While indulgent, Gooey Butter Bars are a satisfying treat when enjoyed in moderation, offering emotional and sensory benefits for both baker and consumer.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 310
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 25g

Serving and Presentation Tips

Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Serve on a decorative platter for a polished presentation

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Based on 16 servings from a 9×13-inch pan.

Calories: 310
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 130mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 3g

High in Calories:
Each bar is calorie-dense, making it a great occasional treat for indulgence but best consumed in moderation.
Rich in Fats:
The butter and cream cheese contribute to the high fat content, with a significant amount of saturated fat. This gives the bars their creamy and rich texture but should be balanced with healthier meals.
Sugar Content:
With 25g of sugar per serving, these bars are undeniably sweet. Reducing sugar or using alternative sweeteners can make them a lighter option.
Protein:
Though not protein-rich, the small protein content comes from eggs and cream cheese.
Micronutrients:

Calcium: Present due to the dairy components, supporting bone health.
Vitamin A: Found in butter, it contributes to eye and skin health.

Tips for Balancing Nutrition

Pair a small serving with a cup of unsweetened tea or coffee to cut through the sweetness.
Enjoy as a dessert following a lighter meal, such as a salad or lean protein, to balance the overall nutrient intake of your day.
Freeze leftovers in portions to control serving sizes and prevent overindulgence.

While indulgent, Gooey Butter Bars can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation!

Conclusion

Gooey Butter Bars are a timeless dessert loved for their simplicity and flavor. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, buttery taste make them a favorite for dessert lovers everywhere. Perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, they’re a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

For the Lovers of Sweet Treats

If you’re a fan of soft, creamy, and buttery desserts, these Gooey Butter Bars are for you! From children to adults, everyone loves the blend of textures and flavors. Share them with friends, or keep them as your guilty pleasure—either way, they’re sure to delight.