Cream Cheese Cake Bars
Cream Cheese Cake Bars offer a rich, moist treat with a hint of vanilla and cream cheese flavor, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a sweet, creamy snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cake mix, 1 Egg Beater (1/4 cup), liquid Butter Buds, and vanilla with an electric mixer until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a cake pan that has been sprayed with Pam.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, beat the fat-free cream cheese, remaining Egg Beaters (3/4 cup), and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cake bars.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a sugar substitute in the cream cheese mixture. You can also replace the cake mix with a gluten-free alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Make sure to beat the cream cheese until smooth to avoid lumps. If you prefer a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the cream cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These cream cheese cake bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside Donna'S Spinach Dip for a delightful snack spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream cheese cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. Avoid prolonged heating to prevent the cream cheese from becoming too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Cake Bars contains roughly 240 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 use regular cream cheese instead of fat-free?
Yes, you can use regular cream cheese for a richer flavor and creamier texture. However, keep in mind that this will increase the calorie content of the bars. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, stick with the fat-free version.
How can I make these bars more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or some lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for added warmth and depth.
Can I freeze these cake bars?
Yes, you can freeze the cream cheese cake bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight 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).