Description

A simple, stress-free dessert featuring a crisp buttery shortbread crust and a rich, tangy cream cheese filling. Made with just four ingredients, these bars are perfect for last-minute gatherings and taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

Scale

1 stick (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (dry)
8 oz (225g) block cream cheese, softened
2 cups (250g) confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and dry yellow cake mix. Mash together with a fork, hands, or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles wet sand or coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure it is tight and solid.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened block cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pressed crust layer.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still has a slight jiggle.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack (1-2 hours). Do not cut while warm.
Once cooled, lift the cake out using the parchment paper overhang. Dust the top with extra powdered sugar and cut into 12-16 squares.
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Notes

Use block cream cheese, not tub cream cheese, to ensure the filling sets properly. Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for the crust. The bars must cool completely before cutting to prevent the filling from oozing out. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for an hour after cooling to room temperature.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 32
Sodium: 220
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 38
Protein: 4

Keywords: gooey butter cake, easy dessert, 4 ingredient dessert, cream cheese bars, party dessert, make ahead dessert