Chess Squares Recipe

Chess Squares are beloved for their chewy texture, golden top, and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Unlike complicated desserts, these bars don’t require any fancy equipment or baking expertise. They’re perfect for potlucks, bake sales, holiday gatherings, or just a weeknight sweet craving. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re an ideal go-to dessert.

Chess Squares Recipe

Recipe by Chef Sadat KhizarCourse: DessertCuisine: SouthernDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Chess Squares Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 2 large eggs For Filling

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 lb)

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until well combined.
  Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Add the remaining 2 eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until smooth and creamy.
• Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set (a slight jiggle is okay).
• Cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving.

Recipe Video

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: Serve warm or chilled Chess Squares with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
• Topped with Fresh Berries: Add a fresh twist by topping each square with sliced strawberries or blueberries.
• Drizzled with Chocolate or Caramel Sauce: For extra indulgence, drizzle chocolate or caramel over the top before serving.
• Party Platter Favorite: Cut into small bites and add to a dessert tray alongside cookies and brownies for variety.

Saving Suggestions

• Refrigerate for Freshness: Store leftover Chess Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer-Friendly: To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
• Thaw & Serve: Thaw in the fridge overnight or warm briefly in the microwave for a quick dessert fix.
• Batch Bake: Make a double batch and freeze half to save time for future events or cravings.

class="wp-block-heading">FAQs About Chess Squares

Q: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
A: Yes! While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can try butter or white cake mix for a slightly different flavor.

Q: Do Chess Squares need to be refrigerated?
A: Yes, due to the cream cheese filling, it’s best to refrigerate them to keep them fresh and safe to eat.

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Q: Are Chess Squares the same as Gooey Butter Cake?
A: They’re very similar! Both have a dense, buttery crust and a gooey topping, but Chess Squares are usually cut into bars and are a bit simpler to make.