Homemade Chess Squares Recipe

Delectable chess squares with a creamy, rich flavor layered on a buttery crust.

Chess squares are a beloved Southern dessert that hold a special place in many households. Their origins are somewhat debatable, with some attributing them to England and others praising their Southern U.S. roots. What is universally agreed upon, however, is that they are simply delectable. These squares boast a buttery crust that's wonderfully complemented by a creamy, yet slightly tangy cream cheese layer.

Whether you’re making these to reminisce about childhood memories or exploring them for the first time, this recipe brings the tradition of chess squares straight to your kitchen. With a perfect balance of sweet and slightly tangy, they make for the ultimate dessert for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let's embark on the journey of making these delightful treats!

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

Calories: ~320 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and melted butter. Add one egg to the mixture and mix until well combined. This mixture will be thick and slightly crumbly, but it should press together when squeezed. Press it evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish, ensuring it covers the entire base.
2. Make the Filling: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed initially to prevent a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, add the remaining two eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Layers: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring it covers the crust entirely and is even on top.
4. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Keep a close eye on the squares during the last few minutes to ensure the top doesn't over-brown.
5. Cool: Remove the baking dish from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This may take an hour or more, but it's essential for the squares to set properly before cutting.
6. Cut and Serve: Once completely cool, cut the chess squares into desired sizes. A 9x13 inch pan typically yields 16 squares, but you can cut them smaller or larger based on your preference. Enjoy them as they are, or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice baker, creating these chess squares is a rewarding and straightforward process. The golden-brown crust paired with the creamy, sweet filling is a combination that is sure to please any crowd.

One tip for achieving the perfect chess squares is to ensure that your cream cheese is fully softened before starting. This helps in creating a smooth, lump-free filling. You can leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for at least an hour before you start baking.

Additionally, don’t rush the cooling process. While it may be tempting to dive into these delicious squares as soon as they come out of the oven, giving them time to cool completely will make them easier to cut and serve.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different variations of this classic recipe. Some bakers add a splash of lemon juice to the filling for a tangy twist, or you could swirl in some raspberry jam before baking for a fruity addition. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

These chess squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings. If you want them to last even longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Remember, the joy of baking lies in both the process and the final product. So take your time, enjoy the steps, and relish each bite of these delightful chess squares. Happy baking!