Chess Squares
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Chess squares are a yummy Southern treat you can make easily at home. They have a cake mix crust and a gooey cream cheese topping. You only need 6 ingredients and about 15 minutes of prep time to whip up these tasty bars.
The squares bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top. Let them cool before cutting into squares. With a soft, creamy filling and buttery crust, chess squares are perfect for parties or as a sweet snack. Give this simple recipe a try – you’ll love how easy and delicious they are!
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these yummy Chess Squares:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before you start. This will help them mix better.
You’ll also want to have a 9×13-inch baking pan ready. You can grease it or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 350°F before you begin mixing the ingredients. This way, it’ll be hot and ready when your Chess Squares are prepared for baking.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal if you like.
In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Blend until you get a dough-like consistency. Press this evenly into your pan to form the crust.
Next, grab another bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, 3 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat these ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Pour this creamy mixture over your crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center jiggles just a little.
Let your chess squares cool completely in the pan. This helps them set properly. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy your tasty treat!
Possible Substitutes List
You can make some tasty swaps in this chess squares recipe. Try these easy changes:
• Cake mix: Use white, chocolate, or lemon cake mix instead of yellow.
• Butter: Swap for margarine or coconut oil.
• Cream cheese: Try mascarpone or Greek yogurt.
• Powdered sugar: Use granulated sugar or a sugar substitute.
• Vanilla: Swap for almond or lemon extract.
Here’s a quick table of substitutes:
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | White, chocolate, or lemon cake mix |
| Butter | Margarine or coconut oil |
| Cream cheese | Mascarpone or Greek yogurt |
| Powdered sugar | Granulated sugar or sugar substitute |
| Vanilla extract | Almond or lemon extract |
Want to make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free cake mix. For a lower-fat version, try low-fat cream cheese and reduce the butter.
Remember, these swaps may change the taste and texture a bit. But they’re great for trying new flavors or working with what you have on hand.
How To Make It Diabetes-Friendly
To make Chess Squares more diabetes-friendly, try these simple swaps:
Use a sugar-free yellow cake mix instead of regular. This cuts down on carbs and sugar.
Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This lowers the fat content.
Swap the cream cheese for a low-fat version. You’ll still get that creamy texture with less fat.
Instead of powdered sugar, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Start with 1 cup and adjust to taste.
Add some cinnamon or nutmeg to boost flavor without extra sugar.
These changes will make your Chess Squares more suitable for those watching their blood sugar. The texture may be a bit different, but the taste will still be yummy.
Remember to check with your doctor about how these treats fit into your meal plan. Even with changes, they should be enjoyed in moderation.
Try making smaller squares to control portion sizes. This way, you can still enjoy a sweet treat without overdoing it.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Let your chess squares cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.
For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking for a crunchy twist.
To store your chess squares, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and tasty!
If you want to make them ahead, you can prepare the crust a day or two early. Just wrap it tightly and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, add the filling and bake.
For easy removal, line your pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides to lift out the entire batch after cooling.
Try different cake mix flavors for variety. Chocolate, lemon, or even strawberry can create fun new versions of this classic treat.
Remember to bring your cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
