Cheese Cake Squares
Indulge in these creamy and decadent cheesecake squares, featuring a rich cream cheese layer atop a buttery yellow cake base. Perfect for gatherings or as a delightful dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, these squares combine the comforting flavors of vanilla and cream, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- Spray a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Mix cake mix, margarine, and 1 egg until well blended. Pat into prepared pan.
- In a blender, mix cream cheese, 2 eggs, and powdered sugar. Pour over the first mixture.
- Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone for a creamier texture. If you want to add a twist, try mixing in some lemon zest or vanilla extract to the cheese layer. Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can make the squares dry. Let them cool completely before cutting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesecake squares chilled, dusted with powdered sugar for a simple presentation. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a delightful addition to any gathering or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Cake Squares contains roughly 502 calories, with 7g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, to create unique variations of these cheesecake squares. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the cake mix will influence the overall taste of the dessert.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the cream cheese and powdered sugar, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
How can I make the cheesecake squares less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can cut down on the amount of powdered sugar used in the cream cheese mixture. Alternatively, consider adding a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness with some tartness.
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).