Low-Fat Cream Cheese Cake Bars
Light and creamy cream cheese cake bars with a delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for those seeking a low-fat dessert option that combines moist cake with a sweet, tangy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a bowl, blend the cake mix, egg substitute, liquid margarine substitute, and vanilla with a hand mixer until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a 9 1/2 x 13-inch glass casserole dish that has been sprayed with nonfat cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before adding optional powdered sugar topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have egg substitutes, you can use 3 regular eggs instead. To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, opt for the powdered sugar plus sugar substitute combination for a more indulgent taste without the calories.
Serving Suggestions
These cake bars are delightful served chilled or at room temperature. Consider topping them with fresh berries or a dollop of fat-free whipped cream for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect treat for brunch or dessert. For a fun twist, serve alongside a refreshing Tympani Taffy Apple Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds or let it come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Cream Cheese Cake Bars contains roughly 313 calories, with 3g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (23% 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 regular cream cheese instead of fat-free?
Yes, you can use regular cream cheese if you prefer a richer flavor and creamier texture. However, this will increase the fat content of the bars. If you want to maintain the low-fat aspect, stick with fat-free cream cheese for this recipe.
How do I know when the cake bars are done baking?
The cake bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so it’s wise to start checking a few minutes before the suggested time.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts can provide a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add a significant amount to ensure the bars bake evenly.
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).