Doris' Dessert Bars
Doris' Dessert Bars are sweet, tangy, and creamy treats featuring a lemon-flavored cake base topped with a rich cream cheese layer, perfect for gatherings and dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, melted oleo, and beaten eggs, then spread the batter evenly in a greased pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with eggs and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes or until set and golden.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs in the cream cheese layer. If you need a gluten-free option, look for a gluten-free lemon cake mix. Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture can enhance the flavor beautifully. You can also experiment with different cake mix flavors for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These dessert bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great addition to a brunch spread. For a fun twist, serve alongside Ice Cream Pancakes for a delicious brunch experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Doris' Dessert Bars contains roughly 250 calories, with 2g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 make these dessert bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these bars a day in advance. They actually taste better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours, as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store them properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What if I don't have oleo?
If you don't have oleo (margarine), you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options will work well, though using butter may add a richer flavor to the cake layer.
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While lemon is delicious, you can use any flavor of cake mix you prefer. For instance, a vanilla or even a chocolate cake mix could create a unique dessert. Just be mindful that it will alter the overall flavor profile of the bars.
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).