Indulge in a slice of Southern comfort with these irresistible chess squares!
They feature a buttery, golden cake crust topped with a luscious cream cheese filling.
And the texture is simply divine. The crust is slightly crisp, and the filling is smooth and velvety.
Whether you’re hosting a potluck, want an easy weeknight treat, or craving something sweet, chess squares are your answer.
Why You’ll Love These Chess Squares
Rich Taste: Combining a buttery cake base and a creamy, sweet topping creates a rich, indulgent flavor. These squares are guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Easy Time-Saver: Chess squares require minimal effort and ingredients. They’re a go-to recipe for last-minute entertaining or when you need a quick dessert fix.
Crowd-Pleaser: The universal appeal makes them a hit at bake sales and family gatherings, ensuring happy faces all around.
Versatile Canvas: While delicious alone, they can easily be customized with add-ins. Try chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit preserves.
Ingredients
- Yellow Cake Mix: The foundation of this dessert provides structure and sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: It adds richness and helps bind the crust to create a tender, flavorful base.
- Eggs: They give structure to both layers and form a custard-like top that’s irresistibly gooey.
- Cream Cheese: It brings a tangy creaminess to the topping, making these squares utterly addictive.
- Powdered Sugar: It melts into the cream cheese for a smooth texture.
- Vanilla Extract: It adds depth and warmth to the creamy topping.
How to Make Chess Squares
These chess squares are an easy-peasy dessert you can always rely on!
1. Prep. Preheat your oven to 350°Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust. Add the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg to a large bowl. Mix until well blended into a dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Mix the cream cheese. Add the softened cream cheese, remaining 3 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to another bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer in the pan, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The top should have a slight jiggle but not be too wobbly.
6. Cool and serve. Let the squares cool in the pan before cutting them. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chess Squares
This recipe is foolproof, but take these tips into consideration for the best results.
- Room temperature is key. Use softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs for a smoother mixture and better incorporation.
- Keep a watchful eye. Monitor the baking time closely to ensure the top is golden brown and the center is set but not too firm. The slight jiggle is vital to achieving the right consistency.
- Cool the squares completely. Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This prevents them from breaking apart and makes them easier to handle.
- Add some sweetness. Serve with powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness and presentation.
- Try fun flavor variations. Try different flavor combinations by adding extracts to the cream cheese mixture. Almond, lemon, or orange are fantastic options. Or try it with various cake mixes, such as chocolate or red velvet. You can also incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit preserves for added texture and taste.
How to Store
To Store: Place cooled squares in an air-tight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
To Freeze: Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Chess Squares
12
servings15
minutes40
minutes440
kcalThese Southern chess squares are a classic treat everyone loves! The velvety cream cheese filling is positively irresistible.
Ingredients
1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Add the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg to a large bowl. Mix until well blended into a dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Add the softened cream cheese, remaining 3 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to another bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The top should have a slight jiggle but not be too wobbly.
- Let the Chess Squares cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!
