Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cake bars are the ultimate dessert for caramel lovers! The soft, buttery crust pairs perfectly with the creamy, caramel-filled center. The caramel sauce adds a rich sweetness while the sea salt enhances all the flavors, creating a dessert that’s decadently gooey and absolutely delicious. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients, making them perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cream cheese mixture, then sprinkle with the sea salt.
- Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the caramel layer to cover.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set but the center is still slightly gooey. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top after baking for an extra sweet finish.
- Use a chocolate cake mix for a chocolatey version of this dessert.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, but you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use a butter cake mix or a vanilla cake mix as a substitute for yellow cake mix.
2. Can I make these bars without the caramel sauce?
The caramel sauce is key to the flavor, but you can substitute it with homemade caramel or dulce de leche if preferred.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.
4. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different.
5. How do I know when these bars are done?
The top should be set and golden, but the center should still feel slightly soft and gooey.
6. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
7. What can I substitute for sea salt?
You can use kosher salt or regular table salt, but sea salt provides a more subtle, delicate flavor.
8. How should I slice these bars?
For clean cuts, let the bars cool completely before slicing, and use a sharp knife.
9. Can I add chocolate chips to these bars?
Yes, chocolate chips would be a delicious addition! Sprinkle them into the cream cheese filling or on top before baking.
10. How do I get the caramel to drizzle evenly?
Heat the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to drizzle.
Conclusion
Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are a perfect combination of buttery, creamy, and sweet, with just the right hint of salt. These easy-to-make bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become a favorite treat. With their rich flavor and gooey texture, they’re perfect for any occasion!
Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are the ultimate indulgence, featuring a buttery yellow cake crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a luscious caramel drizzle. Finished with a sprinkle of sea salt, these decadent bars balance sweet and salty flavors perfectly, making them the ideal dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- ½ tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cream cheese mixture and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the caramel layer, covering it.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set but the center is still slightly gooey. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top after baking for an even sweeter finish.
- You can use chocolate cake mix for a chocolatey twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
