Old Fashioned Cream Bars
Creamy, sweet old fashioned bars with a buttery crust and rich cream cheese topping, perfect for dessert lovers and family gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix together the cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter.
- Pat the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and up 1/4 inch on the sides of the pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the remaining 2 eggs and powdered sugar; mix well.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you don't have yellow cake mix, a white cake mix can be used with a bit of added sugar. Ensure the butter is melted but not too hot to avoid cooking the eggs when mixed in. This recipe can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix.
Serving Suggestions
These cream bars are delightful on their own, but you can enhance the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. They would also complement the flavors of Lela's Cranberry Waldorf, making a lovely dessert spread for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Cream Bars contains roughly 561 calories, with 3g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 43g 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 substitute yellow cake mix with a white or even chocolate cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that this may alter the overall taste and sweetness of the cream bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The cream bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
Can I add toppings to the cream bars?
Absolutely! You can sprinkle some chopped nuts or drizzle chocolate over the top after baking for added texture and flavor. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar also make lovely garnishes.
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).