Ooey Gooey Bars: A Deliciously Sweet and Chewy Treat

Ooey Gooey Bars are a beloved dessert known for their irresistible texture and rich flavor. With a gooey, sweet center and a chewy, buttery crust, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. They’re ideal for sharing at gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying as a homemade treat. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delectable bars.

Ingredients

For the Base:

All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
Egg: 1 large
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Filling:

Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 ounces)
Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup (optional, for added gooeyness)

For the Topping (optional):

Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup, for dusting

Equipment Needed

9×9 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer (or a whisk)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
Prepare the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk until light and fluffy.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be thick.
Press Dough into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and the butter is fully melted.
Add Vanilla and Chocolate Chips: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in until evenly distributed.
Spread Filling Over Base: Pour the filling over the pressed dough in the pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set. The center should be slightly gooey.
Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips and Variations

Add Nuts: For added texture, you can fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the filling.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) or add a swirl of caramel for extra flavor.
Check for Doneness: The filling will continue to set as it cools, so be sure not to overbake. The center should be soft and gooey.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf life, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestion: These bars are delicious on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Ooey Gooey Bars are a delightful and indulgent treat that combines a chewy base with a sweet, gooey center. With their rich flavor and comforting texture, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special homemade treat. Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious bars with family and friends!