Chess Cheese Bars
Chess Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and lemon with a soft, cake-like base. These bars are perfect for gatherings, offering a sweet treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Their unique texture and flavor profile make them a standout dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix by hand the cake mix, margarine, and 1 egg until it forms a soft ball-like cookie dough.
- Press the dough into a large sheet-type pan that is greased with Pam.
- Cream together the lemon flavoring, cream cheese, and 3 eggs, adding one egg at a time.
- Add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the top of the dough.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 350°.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter in place of margarine. If you prefer a citrus twist, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest along with the lemon flavoring. Mixing the cream cheese until smooth before adding the eggs can help achieve a creamier texture. This recipe is versatile; you can easily swap the cake mix for a gluten-free version if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These Chess Cheese Bars are perfect for gatherings, and they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They also make a great addition to dessert trays featuring American recipes. Enjoy them at parties or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Chess Cheese Bars to cool completely before storing. Cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chess Cheese Bars contains roughly 120 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 freeze Chess Cheese Bars?
Yes, Chess Cheese Bars freeze well! Once cooled, cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying!
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).