Cheese Chess Bars
Cheese Chess Bars are sweet, creamy dessert bars with a buttery cake base and a rich cheese topping, perfect for gatherings and satisfying sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix with melted butter and 1 beaten egg until well combined.
- Pat the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch greased cake pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with 2 eggs and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the cake crust in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 40 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture. You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free option for a gluten-free version. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the powdered sugar slightly. Be sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cheese Chess Bars chilled or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for dessert. Consider serving alongside fresh berries or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through, avoiding overheating to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Chess Bars contains roughly 607 calories, with 5g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% 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 make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these Cheese Chess Bars can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free option. Both will provide a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze Cheese Chess Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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).