There’s a certain joy that comes from indulging in a dessert that feels like a warm hug, and these Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars embody that feeling perfectly! Picture this: the sweet, buttery aroma wafts through your kitchen as the bars bubble away in the oven, promising a melt-in-your-mouth experience. I stumbled upon this recipe during a rainy afternoon, searching for something to brighten my day, and let’s just say it ended up being a delightful kitchen discovery.
Combining rich cream cheese, luscious caramel, and a hint of vanilla, these bars aren’t just a treat — they’re an experience waiting to happen. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply need a pick-me-up after a long day, these decadent squares will impress every sweet tooth. They’re so easy to whip up that you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought desserts. Grab your apron and let’s create a truly ooey-gooey masterpiece together!
Why are Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars irresistible?
Indulgent goodness: Each bite bursts with the rich flavor of caramel and cream cheese, creating a dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps and commonly found ingredients, these bars can be whipped up in no time—perfect for spontaneity!
Versatile options: Feel free to get creative—substitute ingredients, add chocolate chips, or even experiment with flavored cake mixes.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at parties or simple family dinners, these gooey bars will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Perfect pair: Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for that extra touch of decadence, turning even a regular day into a special occasion!
Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Ingredients
For the Base
- Butter – 1/2 cup; provides richness and moisture. Substitute with margarine for a non-dairy option.
- Sugar – 1 cup; adds sweetness and structure. Reduce to 3/4 cup for a less sweet version.
- Cream Cheese – 8 oz; creates a creamy texture. Can replace with mascarpone cheese for a different flavor.
- Cake Mix – 2 cups; forms the base of the bars. Experiment with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances flavor. Use almond extract for a nutty twist.
For the Topping
- Salted Caramel Sauce – 1 cup; topping that delivers deep flavor. Make homemade or use store-bought for convenience.
How to Make Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars
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Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars once baked. This step is crucial for a hassle-free serving experience!
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Mix Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until creamy. Add in the cream cheese, blending until smooth, then mix in the cake mix and vanilla extract until you achieve a luscious batter.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the center is set but slightly soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs for that ooey-gooey texture!
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Add Caramel: Once the bars are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle that warm salted caramel sauce generously over the top, letting it seep in for added deliciousness.
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Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This step ensures they hold their shape and maintain that delicious gooey center.
Optional: Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars
- Room Temperature: Keep bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature; this retains their gooey texture and flavor.
- Fridge: If you need extra storage time, place them in the fridge for about a week—just make sure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying!
- Reheating: For a warm treat, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just long enough to soften the caramel without making it too hot.
Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and make it your own!
- Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolaty surprise. This twist adds richness and a touch of sweetness that chocolate lovers will adore!
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and texture. The nuttiness beautifully contrasts with the creamy flavor, creating a satisfying bite.
- Flavored Cake Mix: Substitute the vanilla cake mix with chocolate, lemon, or even red velvet for a unique spin. This keeps things exciting and allows you to explore different taste profiles!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and margarine for butter to create a dairy-free version. You’ll still enjoy sumptuous bars with a luscious coconut flavor that complements the caramel.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for a warming spice twist. This subtle heat wonderfully enhances the sweetness without overpowering it!
- Fruit Fusion: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen fruit like blueberries or raspberries for a burst of flavor and vibrant color. The natural tartness of the fruit balances the rich caramel beautifully.
- Caramel Pecan Topping: Mix 1/2 cup of crushed pecans into your salted caramel sauce before drizzling. This adds a delightful crunch and deeper flavor, making every bite even more indulgent!
- Gourmet Salt: Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt instead of regular table salt for a gourmet touch. This elevates the flavor and gives you that perfect sweet-salty contrast.
What to Serve with Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars?
Picture this: you’re cutting into a soft, gooey bar topped with warm salted caramel, and you want to elevate that experience even further!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy contrast enhances the warm, gooey texture of the bars, creating a perfect balance of flavors. A classic choice that never disappoints!
- Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or sweet strawberries add a refreshing touch, cutting through the richness of the caramel and cake. Their vibrant colors also brighten the dessert presentation.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a bold shot of espresso offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making it a perfect companion for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce on top of the bars can elevate your dessert to new heights—indulgent and oh-so-decadent!
- Nutty Caramel Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the warm bars for added texture and a delightful crunch that complements the soft cake beneath.
- Caramelized Bananas: Sautéing bananas in a bit of butter and brown sugar brings out their natural sweetness, transforming them into a luxurious topping perfect with your dessert.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a silky texture, making every bite feel rich yet delicate.
- Chilled Milk: A glass of cold milk serves as the ultimate classic pairing, washing down every heavenly bite of gooey goodness in the most delightful way!
Expert Tips for Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the bars; they should remain slightly soft in the center for that signature ooey-gooey experience.
- Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges. Wipe the knife between slices to maintain their beautiful presentation.
- Homemade Caramel: If making your own salted caramel, allow it to cool slightly before drizzling on top for best results and maximum flavor infusion.
- Experiment: Feel free to explore variations! Adding chocolate chips or nuts can elevate your Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without the stress of last-minute baking! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix everything together and store the bowl covered in the refrigerator. The caramel sauce can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated, preserving its luscious flavor for up to a week. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan and bake as directed. This approach not only saves you time but ensures that your bars will be just as delicious and gooey as if you had baked them fresh on the spot!
Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting butter, aim for a quality brand to ensure richness. Your cream cheese should be fresh, with no dark spots or unusual smell. For the cake mix, check the expiration date to guarantee the best texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover cake bars?
Very simple! Store your Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cake bars?
Absolutely! To freeze your bars, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped inside. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my cake bars are too dry?
If your bars dry out, they may have been baked too long. Next time, bake just until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. If they’re already baked, you can try reheating them briefly in the microwave. Drizzling with more salted caramel can also help restore moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! This dessert is vegetarian-friendly but contains dairy and gluten. For a non-dairy option, substitute the butter with margarine and use non-dairy cream cheese. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially if serving to guests with food sensitivities.
What if I don’t have cake mix?
No problem! You can make a simple DIY cake mix by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Use this mixture in place of the store-bought cake mix for your Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars recipe!
Irresistible Ooey Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars once baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until creamy. Add in the cream cheese, blending until smooth, then mix in the cake mix and vanilla extract until you achieve a luscious batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the center is set but slightly soft.
- Once the bars are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle that warm salted caramel sauce generously over the top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.