Cream Cheese Squares are an irresistibly creamy and easy-to-make dessert that combines a soft cake layer with a luscious cream cheese topping. This recipe uses a yellow cake mix as the base, creating a buttery, slightly dense bottom layer that pairs perfectly with the smooth, sweetened cream cheese on top.
The preparation is simple: blend the cake mix with eggs and butter to form the crust, then whip up a sweet cream cheese mixture for the topping. Once layered, the dessert bakes to a soft, golden finish, with the cream cheese layer staying creamy and rich. After cooling, these squares are easy to slice, making them perfect for serving at gatherings or as a quick treat for family and friends.
Enjoy these squares as they are, or add a sprinkle of confectioner’s sugar for a hint of elegance and extra sweetness. These delightful treats are sure to be a hit, offering a delicious balance of buttery cake and creamy topping in every bite!
Why You’ll Love It:
Easy to Make: With a cake mix base and a straightforward cream cheese topping, this recipe is quick and beginner-friendly.
Crowd-Pleaser: The rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor make these squares irresistible to anyone with a sweet tooth.
Customizable: You can easily add variations with flavors, toppings, or garnishes to make these squares your own.
Perfect for Sharing: The 9×13-inch pan makes enough for a crowd, so it’s ideal for parties or potlucks.
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Key Ingredients:
Yellow Cake Mix: Using a yellow cake mix is not only convenient, but it also creates a dense, slightly sweet base that complements the cream cheese topping. You can substitute with white or butter cake mix if desired.
Eggs: Beaten eggs help bind the cake mix and butter, giving the crust structure and moisture.
Butter: Use softened butter for easy mixing and a rich, buttery flavor in the cake base. Avoid melted butter, which can make the crust too dense.
Confectioner’s Sugar: This fine sugar is perfect for sweetening the cream cheese mixture, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat, softened cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Softening it makes mixing easier and results in a smooth, lump-free topping.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla brings warmth to the topping, enhancing the overall flavor.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
How to Make Cream Cheese Squares:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and the perfect texture for the cream cheese squares.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Base
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, beaten eggs, and softened butter. Use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to blend until smooth and fully combined.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Form the Cake Layer: Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, covering the entire base in a uniform layer.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Topping
Combine Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, blend the confectioner’s sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth for a luscious topping.
Spread the Topping: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
Step 4: Bake the Squares
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. The top should be set and lightly golden, but avoid overbaking to keep the cream cheese layer soft and creamy.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let the pan cool completely, allowing the layers to set properly for easy cutting.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Cut into Squares: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into squares, wiping the knife between cuts for clean edges.
Serve: Arrange the cream cheese squares on a platter and serve as-is, or garnish with a dusting of confectioner’s sugar for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
With Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the rich, creamy filling.
With Whipped Cream: Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, fluffy addition.
On a Dessert Board: Arrange alongside cookies, brownies, and fruit for a beautiful dessert spread perfect for entertaining.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover cream cheese squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool temperature keeps the cream cheese layer set and prevents spoiling.
Freezing: These squares freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cream cheese squares out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety, especially in warm weather.
Variations
Chocolate Cream Cheese Squares: Use a chocolate cake mix for the base to add a rich cocoa flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy topping.
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a lemon cake mix and add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese topping for a bright, citrusy twist.
Spiced Cream Cheese Squares: Use a spice cake mix, adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for fall.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Squares: Add ½ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese topping for a seasonal, pumpkin-infused version.
Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture and a nutty crunch.
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese Squares are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dessert with layers of buttery cake and smooth cream cheese topping. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat at home, these squares are as easy as they are delicious. Enjoy each bite of creamy, cake-like goodness!
Cream Cheese Squares
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix for cake base
- 2 large eggs beaten, for cake base
- 1/2 cup butter softened, for cake base
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar for topping
- 8 oz cream cheese softened, for topping
- 1 tsp vanilla extract for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, beaten eggs, and softened butter. Mix until smooth, then press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, blend the confectioner’s sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the mixture over the cake layer in an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes until the top is set and lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cream cheese layer soft.
- Let the pan cool completely. Cut into squares, wiping the knife between cuts for clean edges. Serve as-is or dust with extra confectioner’s sugar.