Are you looking for an exceptionally simple dessert that is rich, gooey, and seductively sweet? Your favorite delicacy for potlucks, holidays, or a weekday treat is this recipe for Chess Bars. These bars, which have a straightforward cake mix crust and a creamy, buttery filling, have the ideal ratio of chewiness to mouthwatering sweetness.
Chess Bars Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings10
minutes40
minutes320
kcalChess Bars Recipe
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 3/4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 lb)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until fully combined and a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 2 eggs and vanilla extract; mix until well blended.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (it may jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools).
Recipe Video
Serving Suggestions
- For an even more indulgent treat, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- To achieve a bakery-style finish, sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving.
- For a gourmet touch, add chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel.
- Ideal for after-school snacks, bake sales, brunches, and holiday dessert tables.
Savings Suggestions
- To save money without compromising flavor, use store-brand cake mix and cream cheese.
- To avoid baking as often, purchase powdered sugar in bulk.
- Enjoy leftover bars whenever you want by freezing them in airtight containers for up to two months.
- Turn slightly stale bars into a parfait by layering them with fruit and whipped cream.
FAQs
Why do they go by the name “chess bars”?
A: Although the exact origin of the word is unknown, it is thought to have originated from the phrase “just pie,” which may have been modified into “chess pie” by Southern dialect. One variation of that classic is chess bars.
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
A: Indeed! For interesting variations, try chocolate cake mix, white cake mix, or lemon cake mix.
Is it possible to prepare chess bars in advance?
A: Indeed! They taste just as excellent, if not better, the next day and keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Is it possible to freeze chess bars?
A: Definitely. Once fully cooled, cut them into slices and store them in an airtight container for up to two months.
