Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and allow it to fully heat before baking.
- Coat a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine the yellow cake mix, butter, and one egg in a mixing bowl until a thick dough forms.
- Press the crust mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Beat the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and three eggs together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing until fully incorporated and the filling is thick and uniform.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust layer in the baking pan.
- Bake the dessert at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until the center is set and the top develops a light golden color.
- Remove from the oven and allow the chess squares to cool for about 1 hour before slicing into portions.
Nutrition
Notes
These chess squares are the kind of nostalgic dessert that feels like it came straight from a family recipe box. The buttery crust, creamy middle, and lightly caramelized top create the perfect balance of sweetness and comfort.