Frosted Gooey Chocolate Cake Bars

Ingredients

First layer:

1 box chocolate cake mix

1 large egg

1/2 cup melted, unsalted butter

Second layer:

1 package (8oz) cream cheese, softened

2 1/4 cup powdered sugar

2 large eggs

1/2 cup melted, unsalted butter

1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa

2 Tbsp milk

sprinkles & mini chocolate chips for garnish, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 13x9 baking dish with baking spray (I use Baker's Joy or Pam for baking). Set aside.

In a mixing bowl, beat cake mix with egg and melted butter. The mixture will be thick and crumbly. Dump into the baking dish and press into the bottom of the pan (using finger tips or bottom of a cup to press evenly).

In same mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar, eggs, melted butter, cocoa and vanilla. Beat for about 2-3 minutes until creamy and fully combined (scrape down edges of bowl occasionally). Pour over first layer in baking dish, spreading evenly.

Bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely before frosting.

For the frosting, beat butter with powdered sugar, vanilla, cocoa and milk for 3-5 minutes until fluffy. Spread over cooled cake. Add sprinkles and chocolate chips if desired.

Store covered in refrigerator for up to one week. ENJOY.