If you’re searching for a dessert that manages to be simultaneously nostalgic, utterly decadent, and irresistibly gooey, look no further than Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars. Every bite is pure bliss: a buttery, chewy crust, layers of velvety cream cheese filling, swirls of golden caramel, and a finish of flaky sea salt. These bars have that magical balance of sweet and salty, with a texture so utterly soft and rich that you’ll want to make them for every occasion—though don’t be surprised if they disappear before you get the chance to share. Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are the crowd-pleaser every dessert table dreams about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in these Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars plays a special role, from building the soft base to providing the signature gooey swirl and hint of salt. Thankfully, the list is short and sweet—but every component adds incredible flavor, texture, or irresistible color.
- Yellow cake mix: Acts as the convenient and flavorful foundation for your buttery base, saving time without skimping on taste.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings richness and the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture to both the base and the creamy layer.
- Large eggs: Eggs help bind the crust and make the filling luxuriously smooth and custard-like.
- Cream cheese: This is the secret to the gooey, tangy richness that defines gooey butter bars—make sure it’s softened for silky results.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings warmth and rounds out the decadence.
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness while keeping the filling cloud-light and silky rather than gritty.
- Caramel sauce: Swirls of caramel in the middle create the signature ooze—store-bought or homemade both work deliciously.
- Flaky sea salt: Sprinkle over the caramel for those crave-worthy salty pops that make these bars so unforgettable.
How to Make Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This simple heads-up ensures everything bakes evenly. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, cutting a sling for easy removal later—trust me, you don’t want to struggle getting these bars out when they’re done.
Step 2: Mix and Press the Crust
Mix together the yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup melted butter, and one egg in a large bowl until a thick, soft dough forms. Don’t overmix—just blend until you don’t see dry powder. Press this dough into the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure it’s even all the way to the edges. This creates the chewy, buttery base that holds everything together.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. Add the remaining two eggs, 1/2 cup melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar so it blends smoothly—no lumps allowed! This luscious filling is where the “gooey” magic really happens for your Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars.
Step 4: Layer and Swirl
Pour half the cream cheese filling over the crust and gently spread it out. Next, drizzle the caramel sauce across this layer—don’t worry about perfection, as those uneven swirls just add to the charm. Sprinkle over the flaky sea salt; those little sparkles will shine through in every bite. Dollop and carefully spread the remaining cream cheese filling on top, trying not to disturb your caramel layer too much.
Step 5: Bake to Gooey Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for golden edges with a center that looks set but still has a delightful jiggle—this ensures that signature gooey texture. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent with foil in the final 10 minutes.
Step 6: Cool, Chill, and Slice
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan, and then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours. This chill time helps all the layers set, making slicing a breeze without sacrificing gooeyness. Lift out of the pan using the parchment sling, cut into neat bars, and marvel at those gorgeous swirls.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars
Garnishes
For a special touch, sprinkle a little extra flaky sea salt over the bars just before serving—it highlights the salt-caramel combo. A dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely snowy finish, or drizzle a bit more caramel if you want true indulgence.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own, but pairing Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream is pure heaven. For a coffee break treat, serve them alongside strong coffee or espresso—the slightly bitter notes play perfectly with the sweet and salty layers.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into mini squares for bite-sized treats at parties, or layer pieces in parfait glasses with berries and whipped cream for a stunning trifle. You can even wrap individual bars in wax paper for a gourmet dessert gift—they travel beautifully and always impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Store them in an airtight container so they stay fresh and soft. I love having a stash in the fridge for those “just one more bite” moments.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead or save leftovers, freezing is a breeze. Slice the cooled bars and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then tuck them into a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for a treat.
Reheating
These bars are fantastic both chilled and slightly warm. For just-baked gooeyness, pop a square in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving. You’ll get that melty caramel and dreamy texture everyone adores in Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel will add an even richer, deeper flavor to your Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars. Just make sure it’s not too runny, so the layers stay distinct and gooey but not messy.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
The secret is chilling the bars thoroughly before slicing and using a sharp, slightly damp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for picture-perfect squares every time.
Can I make Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular yellow cake mix with your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.
Should the bars be served cold or at room temperature?
It comes down to preference. They hold their shape best when chilled (plus the texture is ultra-fudgy), but you can let them sit at room temp for a creamier bite. Try both and see which you love more!
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the recipe?
You sure can—mini chocolate chips or toasted pecans sprinkled between the filling and caramel layer add an extra dimension of flavor and fun. Just don’t overdo it so the bars stay perfectly gooey.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a dessert that wins hearts, Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are your answer. They’re simple enough for a weeknight and decadent enough for celebrations, all while packing that sweet-salty punch that makes every bite memorable. Treat yourself—you’ll quickly see why this recipe is such a beloved favorite.
Print
Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible decadence of Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars. These bars feature a buttery cake mix crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, a luscious caramel drizzle, and a finishing touch of flaky sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
For the caramel layer:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crust: Mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg to form a soft dough. Press the dough into the baking dish.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
- Layer and bake: Pour half of the filling over the crust. Drizzle caramel sauce, sprinkle sea salt, add remaining filling. Bake for 40–45 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For a richer caramel flavor, use homemade caramel sauce.
- Bars are best served slightly chilled.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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