Creamy Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Looking for a dessert that’s easy to make yet rich in flavor? These Creamy Cheesecake Bars are the perfect solution! Combining the buttery goodness of a cake mix crust with a smooth, tangy cream cheese filling, this recipe will leave your guests begging for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, these bars are a guaranteed hit. Best of all, they require minimal effort, making them an excellent choice for bakers of all levels. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted

For the filling:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box (16 oz) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the bars.
3. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, and melted butter. Stir until well blended.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a firm crust.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined.
3. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, working in batches to avoid clumps.
4. Pour the melted butter into the mixture and stir until the filling is silky and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust layer, spreading it out with a spatula for even coverage.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp.
3. Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once cooled, slice the dessert into squares or bars for serving.
2. For added flair, dust with powdered sugar or top with a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps in the filling.
• For easier slicing, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before cutting.
• Add a touch of lemon zest to the filling for a fresh, zesty flavor twist.

These Creamy Cheesecake Bars are the epitome of indulgence, combining simplicity with elegance. Perfect for any occasion, they are a versatile treat that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with fresh fruit, they’re guaranteed to delight. So, preheat that oven, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a batch of these heavenly bars. Your taste buds will thank you!