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–+ servings
Chess Cake
Chess Cake is a rich, buttery dessert known for its gooey, custard-like filling and soft cake crust. This version uses a lemon cake mix as the base, adding a subtle citrus brightness that pairs beautifully with the creamy topping. With origins rooted in Southern U.S. baking traditions, Chess Cake is beloved for its simplicity and irresistible sweetness. Whether served at potlucks, holidays, or Sunday dinners, this indulgent treat is a crowd-pleaser with a nostalgic twist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 16
Calories 322 kcal

Ingredients
  

Crust Layer:

  • 15¼ oz lemon cake mix
  • 1 stick margarine (melted)
  • 1 egg (beaten)

Topping Layer:

  • 16 oz powdered sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 eggs

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  • In a mixing bowl, combine lemon cake mix, melted margarine, and 1 beaten egg.
  • Mix until fully blended and dough forms.
  • Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Topping

  • In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese and eggs until smooth.
  • Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

  • Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust layer.
  • Spread evenly to cover.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
  • Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Step 4: Serve

  • Cut into squares and serve.
  • Do not refrigerate.

Tips

  • Add a handful of chopped pecans to the bottom layer for crunch.
  • Use yellow or butter cake mix instead of lemon for a classic chess-bar flavor.
  • Add a splash of vanilla to the cream cheese mixture for extra warmth.
  • Sprinkle the top lightly with powdered sugar after baking.
  • Substitute butter for margarine for a richer flavor.
  • Add lemon zest to enhance the citrus if using lemon cake mix.
  • Mix in shredded coconut to the topping for a Southern-style twist.
  • Serve slightly warm for a gooey texture or fully cooled for clean slices.
  • Line the pan with parchment for easier removal.

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 46mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 488IUVitamin C: 0.01mgCalcium: 78mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cream cheese bars, easy baking, nostalgic food, potluck dessert, southern dessert, vintage recipe
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