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These cream cheese squares are pure magic in your mouth. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago in my grandmother's cookbook and have perfected it over time in my own kitchen. The combination of creamy tangy filling over a buttery base creates pure dessert perfection. These squares never fail to disappear at family gatherings.
A Foolproof Family Favorite
What I love most about these squares is how simple they are to throw together. The creamy topping melts perfectly into the buttery base creating these heavenly bites that everyone goes crazy for. I often make them for bake sales and potlucks since they travel well and always get rave reviews no matter who tries them.
Simple Ingredients You'll Need
- Yellow Cake Mix: This shortcut makes the base super quick and consistently delicious.
- Eggs: Two large ones give the perfect structure.
- Butter: A half cup softened makes everything better.
- Confectioner's Sugar: Four cups create that silky smooth topping.
- Cream Cheese: One 8 ounce box for the most luscious filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon brings out all the flavors.
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Kitchen Time
- Get Started
- Warm up your oven to 350°F. I like using parchment in my 9x13 pan for easy cleanup.
- Make Your Base
- Mix your cake mix with eggs and butter until you get a nice smooth dough then press it into your pan.
- Whip Up The Topping
- Beat together your cream cheese confectioner's sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy then spread it all over your base.
- Baking Time
- Pop it in the oven for about 35 minutes watching for that slight golden color on top.
- Final Touch
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares. Clean cuts make them look extra pretty.
Fun Ways to Switch It Up
Sometimes I add fresh lemon zest to brighten things up or sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips when I'm craving extra sweetness. My sister makes them with gluten free cake mix and they turn out great. You can even use less sugar if you prefer a tangier cream cheese taste.
Keeping Them Fresh
These squares stay good on the counter for a couple days but I prefer keeping them in the fridge where they last nearly a week. They taste amazing slightly chilled or at room temperature. I love serving them at book club meetings where they never fail to steal the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use cake mix instead of making from scratch?
Cake mix creates a consistent, easy-to-make base while saving time. It also provides the perfect texture.
- → Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese works best for texture and flavor, but reduced-fat will work if needed.
- → Why let them cool completely?
The cream cheese layer needs to set completely for clean cuts and best texture.
- → Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, wrap well and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight.
- → Can I add other flavors?
Try lemon zest, mini chocolate chips, or different cake mix flavors for variety.