Goodie Bars
Chewy, sweet layered bars featuring yellow cake and cream cheese filling, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and enjoyed by all ages at gatherings or as a treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, 1 egg, and margarine together and pat into a greased pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 egg, cream cheese, and sugar together and pour over the cake mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter makes a great substitute. You can also use low-fat cream cheese to lighten it up. If you want to add some texture, toss in a handful of chocolate chips or nuts to the cake mix. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy easy American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Goodie Bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to dessert platters at parties, complementing other sweets like Mom's Rhubarb Cheese Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Goodie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave individual bars for about 10-15 seconds or until warm, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goodie Bars contains roughly 392 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix like chocolate or red velvet to create unique Goodie Bars. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the overall flavor profile, but it will still be delicious. You may also adjust the cream cheese mixture to complement the new flavor.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, they need more time in the oven. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven.
Can I freeze these Goodie Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).