Description
These Ooey Gooey Neiman Marcus Bars are delectably rich and sweet dessert bars featuring a moist yellow cake base topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer. Baked to golden perfection with a slightly jiggly center, these bars offer a perfect balance of buttery, cakey, and creamy textures that melt in your mouth. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or as an indulgent treat to share.
Ingredients
Base
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25-ounce)
- 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 of cream cheese sit at room temperature until it’s soft. Alternatively, microwave in 15-second bursts until very soft, totaling 30 to 60 seconds.
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan on the bottom and two long sides with parchment paper, leaving at least 1 inch hanging over the edges to create a sling for easy removal.
- Melt the Butter: Place 1 stick of unsalted butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and melt it in 20-second intervals until fully melted (40 to 60 seconds). Alternatively, melt the butter on the stovetop over medium heat. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Make the Cake Base: Add the yellow cake mix and 2 of the eggs to the melted butter. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and thick, about 25 to 30 seconds. Spread this batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: Wipe out the mixing bowl and paddle but no need to wash. Combine softened cream cheese, remaining 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-low speed for 40 to 45 seconds until smooth, scraping sides as needed. Pour this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until edges are golden brown and the center jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken.
- Cool and Slice: Transfer the pan to a wire rack and cool completely for 2 to 3 hours. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the bars, then lift them out using the parchment paper sling. Cut into 24 pieces and serve.
Notes
- Allowing the bars to cool completely is essential for clean cuts and proper setting of the cream cheese layer.
- You can use a stand mixer or hand mixer for blending the batters as preferred.
- Make sure the cream cheese is very soft to prevent lumps in the topping.
- Store any leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For an extra touch, dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
