"Hot To Trott" Cream Cheese Squares
Cream cheese squares with a buttery cake base and rich cream cheese topping, perfect for dessert or tea time, appealing to those who love sweet, creamy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until well combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased cake pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, 3 eggs, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you want to make this dessert a bit lighter, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Ensure the butter is fully melted but not too hot when mixing, as it can cook the eggs. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cream cheese from other baking projects.
Serving Suggestions
These cream cheese squares are delightful when served with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a lovely dessert for gatherings or can be enjoyed as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. For additional flavor, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce. They pair beautifully with a side of Hellen'S Corn Casserole for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cream cheese squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well; wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Hot To Trott" Cream Cheese Squares contains roughly 195 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 14g 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 a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other cake mixes like vanilla or chocolate, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change. A lemon cake mix can add a refreshing twist to the squares. Just ensure the consistency remains similar to maintain the crust texture.
How long should I let the squares cool before cutting?
It's best to let the squares cool completely in the pan before cutting. This usually takes about 30 minutes. If you cut them too soon, they may fall apart. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate them for a bit after cooling to firm up the cream cheese layer.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cream cheese squares can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out. They actually taste better after chilling, as the flavors have more time to meld.
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).