Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cream Cheese Squares are irresistibly creamy and easy to make, with a minimal list of ingredients and straightforward steps. The buttery cake base provides the perfect balance to the rich, velvety cream cheese topping. They’re ideal for feeding a crowd, as the recipe makes a large batch, and they slice easily for serving. Plus, they can be customized with various flavor variations like chocolate, lemon, or pumpkin!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the cake base: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until smooth, then spread it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cream cheese topping: In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the squares: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes. The top should be lightly golden, but the cream cheese layer should remain soft and creamy.
- Cool and cut: Let the squares cool completely before cutting them into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 squares
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Baking time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Cream Cheese Squares: Use a chocolate cake mix for the base for a rich, cocoa-flavored treat.
- Lemon Cream Cheese Squares: Swap the yellow cake mix for a lemon cake mix and add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling.
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Squares: Stir in ½ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired version.
- Nutty Topping: Add chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These squares freeze well. Freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, you can use white or butter cake mix instead of yellow cake mix, depending on your preference.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
3. Can I add fruit to the topping?
Yes, fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries can be added on top for a fresh contrast to the creamy filling.
4. Can I use a different sweetener for the topping?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, monk fruit sweetener, or any other sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar.
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may result in a slightly less creamy texture.
6. Can I freeze the batter before baking?
You can freeze the assembled squares before baking. Just bake them from frozen when you’re ready to serve.
7. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
8. Can I use a store-bought crust instead of making the cake base?
For a shortcut, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust or a cookie crust for a different flavor base.
9. Can I make this without a mixer?
Yes, you can mix everything by hand, though a hand mixer or stand mixer helps ensure smooth and well-combined ingredients.
10. How should I serve these squares?
These squares are perfect as-is, but you can also top them with whipped cream or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Squares are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With their easy-to-make cake base and rich, creamy topping, they are sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or enjoying them as a family treat, these squares will delight everyone who tries them!
Print
Cream Cheese Squares
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream Cheese Squares are a deliciously simple dessert with a buttery cake base and a rich, creamy topping. Made with yellow cake mix and a smooth cream cheese filling, these easy-to-make squares are perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. Customize with various flavors like chocolate, lemon, or pumpkin for a delightful twist!
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix
2 eggs
1/2 cup butter (softened)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Make the cake base: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until smooth, then spread it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
-
Prepare the cream cheese topping: In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble the squares: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base.
-
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes. The top should be lightly golden, but the cream cheese layer should remain soft and creamy.
-
Cool and cut: Let the squares cool completely before cutting them into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Chocolate Cream Cheese Squares: Use a chocolate cake mix for the base for a rich, cocoa-flavored treat.
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares: Swap the yellow cake mix for a lemon cake mix and add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Squares: Stir in ½ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired version.
Nutty Topping: Add chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
