Cream Bars
Cream Bars are rich, sweet dessert bars with a buttery crust, crunchy nuts, and a smooth cream cheese topping, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings at gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg to form the crust mixture.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and eggs until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. You can substitute half of the chopped nuts with chocolate chips for a delightful twist. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Remember to let the cream bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
These cream bars are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more savory option, try serving alongside a refreshing salad or browse more vegetarian recipes for complementary dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, simply microwave a portion for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Bars contains roughly 529 calories, with 8g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (11% 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 nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are traditional, you can substitute with almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just ensure the nuts are chopped finely so they distribute evenly throughout the cream bars.
What can I do if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
If your cream cheese mixture is lumpy, it's likely that the cream cheese wasn't softened enough. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. If lumps persist, you can use a hand mixer or food processor to blend it until smooth.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cream bars a day in advance. They actually taste better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. Just be sure to cover them tightly to keep them fresh.
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).