Cream Cheese Squares
A Simple, Sweet Treat Everyone Loves
These Cream Cheese Squares are a go-to in my kitchen—perfectly sweet, rich, and creamy with a buttery cake base that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re craving a quick after-dinner dessert or need something easy to bring to a potluck, this recipe is always a hit.
With only a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, these bars come together effortlessly. The combination of yellow cake and sweetened cream cheese makes each bite indulgent without being overly heavy.
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crust layer:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, beaten eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft, cohesive dough forms. - Press into the pan:
Spread and press the cake mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the bottom layer. - Make the cream cheese layer:
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. - Add the topping:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer in the pan. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and set. - Cool completely:
Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a touch of lemon zest to the cream cheese layer.
- These bars are even better chilled—store them in the refrigerator for a firmer texture.
Storage:
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.