Cream Cheese Bars
These cream cheese bars feature a buttery cake-mix crust topped with a silky cream cheese layer, making them a simplistic yet delightful dessert perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (standard 15–18 oz box)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 stick
- 1 large egg for the crust
For the filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs for the filling
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch pan or line it with parchment for easy removal.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Stir until everything is evenly moistened and you have a crumbly, pressable dough.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Make the filling: In a second bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat until the mixture is silky and free of lumps.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust and spread gently to the edges.
Baking
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is set and turns a light golden color. A slight jiggle in the center is okay; it will finish setting as it cools.
Cooling
- Cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least an hour before cutting into bars to ensure tidy slices.
Notes
Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa right before serving for a pretty finish. Top individual bars with fresh berries or sliced strawberries for color. Serve at room temperature or chilled, and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.