Description
These Strawberry White Chocolate Gooey Bars combine a moist strawberry cake base with a rich, creamy white chocolate and cream cheese topping, studded with fresh strawberries for a delightful, gooey dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Base
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries, patted dry
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cake Base: In a medium bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a thick dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid base layer.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the remaining 2 eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until fully combined.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Mix-ins: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar into the cream cheese mixture, mixing continuously until smooth and creamy. Fold in the white chocolate chips and diced strawberries gently to evenly distribute.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the cake base layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out for uniform coverage.
- Bake the Bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly gooey to achieve the desired texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For cleaner slices, optionally chill the bars in the refrigerator for 1 hour before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the fresh strawberries are well dried to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the texture.
- Chilling the bars for 1 hour before slicing will result in cleaner, neater pieces.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
