Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Gooey Butter Bars
1. Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together. Next, add the room-temperature butter and eggs to the bowl. Using an electric mixer set on low speed, mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. This should take just a couple of minutes.
Once the dough is ready, prepare your baking pan. Use a 9×13 baking dish and line it with foil (optional) for easy removal later. Grease the pan using nonstick cooking spray or butter. After prepping the pan, press the dough evenly into the bottom to create the crust layer. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling
Now, it’s time to prepare the decadent, gooey filling that makes this dessert so irresistible. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and velvety. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing as you go to ensure there are no lumps. Once fully combined, add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Assemble the Bars
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. This filling will bake up into a golden, gooey top layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender base.
4. Bake the Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes. The bars should develop a golden brown top but will still have a slightly gooey center—don’t worry, this is exactly what you want! Avoid the typical toothpick test for doneness, as it won’t be accurate with these bars. Instead, rely on the golden top and slight jiggle of the filling when gently shaken.
5. Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before attempting to cut them. This will help the gooey filling set properly and ensure clean, neat slices. After cooling, use the foil to lift the bars out of the pan (if you lined it) and cut into squares.
