Description
Deliciously rich and creamy Ooey Gooey Neiman Marcus Bars featuring a buttery yellow cake base topped with a decadent cream cheese and powdered sugar layer. These bars are baked to golden perfection with a soft, slightly jiggly center, making them a perfect dessert to share or enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 2 large eggs
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 pound powdered sugar (about 4 cups)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Let 8 ounces cream cheese sit at room temperature until softened or microwave in 15-second bursts until very soft, about 30 to 60 seconds total.
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan on the bottom and the two long sides with parchment paper, allowing an overhang of at least 1 inch to create a sling for easy removal.
- Melt Butter: Place 1 stick unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20-second bursts until melted, about 40 to 60 seconds. Alternatively, melt in a small saucepan over medium heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix Base Batter: Add the box of yellow cake mix and 2 large eggs to the melted butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 25 to 30 seconds (batter will be thick). Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Topping: Wipe out the mixing bowl. Add softened cream cheese, remaining 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-low speed until smooth, about 40 to 45 seconds, scraping down sides as needed. Pour topping evenly over the base layer in the pan.
- Bake: Bake in preheated oven until edges are golden brown and center is slightly jiggly when shaken gently, approximately 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack for 2 to 3 hours.
- Cut and Serve: Run a knife around the edges to loosen bars. Using the parchment paper sling, lift out the slab and place on a cutting board. Cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- For easy removal, make sure the parchment paper hangs over the sides of the pan to create a sling.
- Be sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth topping layer.
- Cool bars completely before cutting to maintain their structure and achieve clean slices.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
