Introduction

This ooey gooey fall snack recipe delivers incredible flavor with just 8 ingredients in the ENTIRE recipe with one special shortcut that makes preparation a breeze. It’s the perfect treat for cozy autumn days when you crave something warm and comforting. For more seasonal inspiration, try this Cozy Fall Potato Soup in 30 Minutes or this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe.

Ingredients

With just 8 ingredients in the ENTIRE recipe with one special shortcut, these pumpkin bars deliver ooey gooey fall snacking perfection—a warm, spiced aroma and rich, creamy texture that makes them irresistible.

• 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 4 eggs, divided
• 16 tablespoons butter, melted, divided
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Timing

Context: This is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to the special shortcut using just 8 ingredients in the ENTIRE recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Gather Your Just 8 Ingredients

Collect all 8 ingredients: pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, a box of spice cake mix, melted butter, and chopped pecans. This special shortcut using a cake mix eliminates measuring multiple dry ingredients.

Step 2 — Prepare the Pumpkin Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. The mixture should be thick but pourable, with no streaks remaining.

Step 3 — Combine with the Shortcut Ingredient

Sprinkle the entire box of spice cake mix over the pumpkin base. Gently fold until just combined—do not overmix. A few dry streaks are fine; this prevents toughness and keeps the texture ooey gooey.

Step 4 — Assemble for Baking

Spread the thick batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pecans. The butter will create a deliciously crisp topping as it bakes.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes. The edges should be golden brown and pull away slightly from the pan, while the center still appears slightly soft. This is your cue for that perfect fall snacking texture.

Step 6 — Cool Before Serving

Let the baked treat cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. It will firm up slightly while remaining wonderfully gooey. Cutting too soon may cause it to fall apart.

Step 7 — Slice and Enjoy

Once cooled, slice into squares using a sharp knife. Serve warm or at room temperature. For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Step 8 — Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave to restore that fresh-from-the-oven ooey gooey texture.

Nutritional Information

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Boost — Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the dry ingredients for extra protein without altering the ooey gooey texture.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace traditional sweeteners with monk fruit or erythritol blend to reduce carbs while maintaining sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Swap — Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter to make the recipe dairy-free and still deliciously rich.
• Gluten-Free Version — Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to keep the recipe gluten-free and just as satisfying.
• Low-Sodium Alternative — Opt for unsalted butter and reduce or omit added salt to create a lower-sodium version perfect for sensitive diets.
• Nut-Free Variation — Replace any nut ingredients with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a safe, nut-free fall snack.
• Reduced Sugar — Cut the sweetener by one-third and enhance flavor with cinnamon or nutmeg for a less sugary treat.
• Whole Grain Upgrade — Use whole wheat flour or oat flour instead of all-purpose for added fiber and a heartier texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair warm squares with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a cozy dessert.
• Serve alongside a hot mug of spiced apple cider or pumpkin coffee.
• Pack in lunchboxes or take on autumn picnics for easy, portable snacking.
• Offer as a sweet treat at Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings.
• Cut into small bites and arrange on a wooden board for a rustic fall platter.
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant finishing touch.

This recipe with just 8 ingredients in the ENTIRE recipe with one special shortcut is perfect for casual snacking or dressed-up occasions, delivering ooey gooey fall flavor every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Over-measuring sticky ingredients like honey or syrup. Fix: Lightly coat your measuring cup with oil first for a clean, accurate pour.
• Mistake: Using cold butter straight from the fridge. Fix: Let butter soften at room temperature to ensure a perfectly smooth, gooey blend.
• Mistake: Baking in a cold or improperly preheated oven. Fix: Always preheat your oven fully so your snack bakes evenly and achieves that ideal texture.
• Mistake: Overmixing the simple batter once the flour is added. Fix: Gently fold until just combined to avoid a tough, dense final product.
• Mistake: Not properly preparing your baking pan. Fix: Line your pan with parchment paper for effortless removal and perfectly intact bars.
• Mistake: Cutting the bars while they are still piping hot from the oven. Fix: Allow them to cool completely in the pan for clean, neat slices.
• Mistake: Substituting the special shortcut ingredient without testing. Fix: Stick to the specified shortcut to guarantee the signature ooey-gooey result.
• Mistake: Storing the snack while it’s still warm, creating condensation. Fix: Cool completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to 165°F for food safety.

This ooey gooey fall snacking perfection is easy to store and reheat, making it a great make-ahead treat. Just 8 ingredients in the ENTIRE recipe with one special shortcut means less prep and more time enjoying this cozy snack.

Conclusion

This ooey gooey fall snack proves that incredible flavor comes from simple ingredients and smart shortcuts. With just 8 total components, it delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and share your experience in the comments below!

Pumpkin Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Bars

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A fall-inspired twist on the classic St. Louis gooey butter cake, combining a yellow cake mix base with a creamy pumpkin-spiced cream cheese topping for an ooey gooey, buttery dessert perfect for autumn snacking.

• Author: Dude That Cookz
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Method: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 4 eggs, divided
• 16 tablespoons butter, melted, divided
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and 8 tablespoons melted butter. Mix well and press evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan to form the crust.
3. In another bowl, beat together the remaining 3 eggs, softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is set and lightly browned.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

Using a boxed yellow cake mix as the base is the special shortcut that simplifies preparation while maintaining great texture. These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition

• Calories: 560
• Sugar: 54
• Sodium: 471
• Fat: 29
• Saturated Fat: 17
• Unsaturated Fat: 12
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 72
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 6
• Cholesterol: 117

FAQs

What is the special shortcut in this recipe?

The special shortcut is using a pre-made ingredient to save time, which helps keep the recipe to just 8 ingredients in the entire recipe. This makes preparation quick and easy while still delivering ooey gooey fall snacking perfection.

Can I make substitutions for any of the 8 ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute certain ingredients, but stick to the same type to maintain the texture and flavor. Keeping the total count to just 8 ingredients in the entire recipe ensures the dish remains simple and delicious.