1. Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
Mix cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until a thick dough forms.
Press evenly into the pan.
2. Whip the Filling
In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring until fully combined.
3. Layer & Bake
Pour filling over the crust, spreading evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes (center should still jiggle slightly).
Cool completely before slicing (it firms as it cools!).
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
🔥 Don’t overbake! The center should be wobbly but not liquid.
🍫 Chocolate lover’s twist – Sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
🍂 Pumpkin version – Replace ½ cup powdered sugar with ½ cup pumpkin purée + 1 tsp cinnamon.
💡 Clean cuts – Chill for 1 hour before slicing.
Serving Ideas
☕ Classic: Dust with extra powdered sugar.
🍓 Fruity: Top with fresh berries and whipped cream.
🍦 À la mode: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Storage Tips
❄️ Fridge: Keeps for 5 days (cover tightly).
⏳ Freeze: Slice and freeze for 3 months (thaw at room temp).