Cheese Bars Or Cheese Cake
A rich layered dessert combining a cake base with a creamy cheese topping, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and enjoyed by family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 12-inch pan, melt the butter.
- Add the yellow or chocolate cake mix, 1 egg, and 1 tablespoon vanilla to the melted butter in the pan, and mix well.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the pan; it may be difficult to spread.
- In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 tablespoon vanilla until smooth.
- At room temperature, mix the cream cheese until soft and spread over the first mixture in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Allow the dessert to cool for 1 to 2 hours before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the cake mix before baking. If you're out of powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar to create a substitute. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing, ensuring a smooth texture in your cheesecake layer. This recipe is versatile; you can use lemon zest for a refreshing twist, similar to Lemon Raspberry Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese bars chilled or at room temperature, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving them alongside brewed coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive occasion, you might serve them with Topping For Dutch Apple Pie to enhance the dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cut the cheese bars into squares and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 5 days. If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing them; wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy later, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Bars Or Cheese Cake contains roughly 343 calories, with 1g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 23g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any flavor of cake mix, such as red velvet or lemon. Each will impart a unique taste to the dessert, allowing you to customize it based on your preference or occasion.
What should I do if my cream cheese is too hard?
If your cream cheese is too hard, cut it into small cubes and microwave it for about 10 seconds. This should soften it enough to mix easily. Be careful not to overheat it, as it can become too runny.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these cheese bars a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even tastier when served the next day.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).