Cheesy Bars
Cheesy Bars are rich, creamy treats with a crumbly crust and sweet cheese topping, perfect for parties, potlucks, or a delightful dessert for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix egg, cake mix, and margarine until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Set aside.
- Beat 2 eggs, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crumb crust in the cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the cream cheese with Neufchâtel for a lighter version. If you want to add a fruity twist, fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to beat the cream cheese well to avoid lumps for a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy bars are delightful served warm or chilled. Consider pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option. They also make a great treat alongside coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings. For a complete meal, serve with a refreshing salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When reheating, do so in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds at a time, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This will help maintain the texture of the cheesy bars.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Bars contains roughly 432 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 460mg per serving (20% 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 cheesy bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be prepared a day in advance. Just bake them, let them cool completely, and store them in the refrigerator. They can be served cold or warmed up right before serving. This makes them perfect for events or gatherings where you want to save time.
What can I do if I don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan?
If you don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan, you can use two 8-inch square pans or a larger baking dish. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time, as smaller pans may require slightly less time while larger ones may take longer. Keep an eye on them while baking to ensure they don't overcook.
How can I enhance the flavor of these bars?
You can enhance the flavor by adding vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture or mixing in citrus zest for a refreshing note. Additionally, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking for an extra special touch. These enhancements will elevate your cheesy bars to a new level.
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).