Opal'S Chess Bars
Opal's Chess Bars are rich, layered dessert bars with a buttery crust, creamy cheese filling, and sweet, eggy topping. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter and let it cool.
- Mix the cooled butter with 1 egg and the cake mix.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat together 3 eggs, confectioners sugar, and softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular, and you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you're short on time, a box of any flavor cake mix can work, though yellow is classic. Ensure the butter is cool enough to avoid scrambling the egg when mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. These bars are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to a dessert table alongside Peach Congeal Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
These chess bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best results, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until just warm, preserving their creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Opal'S Chess Bars contains roughly 484 calories, with 2g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 34g 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, these chess bars can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are well covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They actually taste even better after chilling overnight, as the flavors have time to meld together.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for cream cheese. This will change the flavor slightly but will still yield a creamy texture. Just make sure to adjust sweetness to taste.
Can I freeze these chess bars?
Absolutely! Chess bars freeze well. After baking and cooling, cut them into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw in the refrigerator 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).