Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract(if using). Mix until well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly crumbly.
- Press into Pan: Reserve about 1 cup of the cake batter for topping. Spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down with your hands or a spatula to form a crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Egg: Gradually add the granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream (if using). Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Spread Over Cake Base: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pressed cake base in the baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 4: Top with Reserved Batter
- Crumble on Top: Take the reserved cake batter and crumble it over the cream cheese filling. It doesn’t have to cover it completely; some gaps are okay!
Step 5: Bake
- Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the top is lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cut and Serve: Once cool, cut into squares or bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Bars:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Flavor Variations: Try using different flavored cake mixes (like lemon or red velvet) to switch up the flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or berries to the cream cheese filling for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion:
These Cake Mix Cream Cheese Bars are an effortless yet delicious dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With a soft, cake-like base and a rich, creamy filling, they’re perfect for any occasion. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable, allowing you to create a treat that suits your taste.
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