Neil Patrick Harris, the renowned American actor, singer, writer, producer, and television host, has long been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Best known for his iconic role in the hit TV series "How I Met Your Mother," Harris has also graced the silver screen with memorable performances in films like "Starship Troopers," "The Smurfs," and "Gone Girl." More recently, he has captivated audiences with his roles in the series "Uncoupled" and the British drama "It's a Sin." As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Harris has been a trailblazer, using his platform to advocate for equality and representation.

Bringing the Flavors of the Holidays Home with a Family Favorite

Harris, who has been married to actor and chef David Burtka since 2014, is known for his love of cooking and entertaining. The couple, along with their fraternal twins, Gideon and Harper, have spent many holiday seasons and meals together in their East Hampton, New York, home, creating cherished memories and delicious culinary experiences.

A Decadent Treat for the Holidays

One of the family's favorite holiday treats is the "Ooey Gooey Bars," a rich and indulgent dessert that has become a staple in the Harris-Burtka household. This delectable creation combines the classic flavors of pound cake, cream cheese, and pecans, resulting in a dessert that is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.

Bringing the Recipe to Life

To recreate this holiday delight, the recipe calls for a simple yet effective combination of ingredients. The base is made from a box of pound cake mix, butter, and eggs, which is then spread evenly into a baking pan. The creamy topping is a blend of softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and two more eggs, creating a luscious and decadent layer that is sprinkled with coarsely chopped pecans.

Baking Up a Storm

The process of making the Ooey Gooey Bars is straightforward and easy to follow. After preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, the baking pan is greased to ensure the bars release easily. The cake mix, butter, and two eggs are combined until smooth, and the mixture is then spread evenly into the prepared pan. The cream cheese, powdered sugar, and two additional eggs are mixed until the topping is silky and smooth, and it is then spread over the cake layer. Finally, the pecans are sprinkled on top, and the bars are baked for 35 minutes.

Indulging in the Sweetness

Once the Ooey Gooey Bars have cooled for 5 minutes, they are ready to be cut into desired sizes and enjoyed. The result is a decadent, gooey, and irresistible treat that is sure to delight the senses. The combination of the moist pound cake, the creamy cream cheese topping, and the crunchy pecans creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that make this dessert a true holiday showstopper.

Sharing the Love

Whether served as a dessert at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a cozy treat at home, the Ooey Gooey Bars are a testament to the joy and togetherness that the holiday season can bring. By sharing this beloved recipe, Neil Patrick Harris and his family invite others to experience the same warmth and sweetness that they have come to cherish in their own holiday traditions.