Why Make This Recipe
Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful treat loved by many. They are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. This simple dessert combines the sweetness of a yellow cake base with a rich cream cheese topping. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty snack, these squares are sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, they are straightforward to prepare, making them ideal for bakers of any skill level.
How to Make Cream Cheese Squares
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 1 8 oz box cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, beaten eggs, and softened butter until smooth.
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, blend the confectioner’s sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, until the top is set and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the dessert into squares.
- Serve as-is or with a dusting of confectioner’s sugar.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Squares
Cream Cheese Squares can be served in many ways. You can enjoy them plain or sprinkle a little confectioner’s sugar on top for added sweetness. These squares go well with coffee, tea, or milk, making them a great addition to any dessert table. You can also garnish them with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra touch.
How to Store Cream Cheese Squares
To keep your Cream Cheese Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days. If you would like to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Cream Cheese Squares
- Make sure your cream cheese is soft before mixing. This will help achieve a smoother texture.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter to keep the squares from becoming tough.
- Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
Variation
You can customize Cream Cheese Squares by adding different flavors. Try mixing in lemon zest or almond extract into the cream cheese layer for a twist. You can also add chocolate chips to the cake batter for an extra chocolatey treat.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with any flavor you like, such as chocolate or vanilla.
2. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cream Cheese Squares can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Cream Cheese Squares
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cream cheese squares with a yellow cake base, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 1 (8 oz) box cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, beaten eggs, and softened butter until smooth.
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, blend the confectioner’s sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, until the top is set and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the dessert into squares.
- Serve as-is or with a dusting of confectioner’s sugar.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Can be frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg