Southern Chess Squares Recipe

Yellow cake mix: This is the base of the recipe, providing a sweet and moist foundation for the squares.

Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the cake mix together.

Egg: Used in both the base and the topping to provide structure and moisture.

Cream cheese: Creates a creamy, tangy layer that complements the sweetness of the cake mix.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese layer.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and gives it a smooth texture.

When pressing the cake mix layer into the pan, use a piece of parchment paper to help evenly distribute the mixture without it sticking to your hands. This ensures a smooth and even base for the cream cheese layer.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with white cake mix: The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still provide a similar texture and sweetness.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with homemade cake mix: Combine 2 cups flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt to create a homemade version.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in equal amounts and will provide a similar texture and moisture.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Use the same amount of melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option with a slight coconut flavor.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This is a good vegan alternative.

• large egg - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a moist texture and slight apple flavor.

• cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Use the same amount of full-fat Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

• cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: This Italian cheese is similar in texture but has a milder flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Use half the amount of almond extract for a different but complementary flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Use the same amount for a unique, sweet flavor.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Blend granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a powdery consistency.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Blend coconut sugar in a blender for a healthier, lower-glycemic option.

• Allow the Southern Chess Squares to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dessert soggy.

• Once cooled, cut the Southern Chess Squares into individual portions. This makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you want without having to thaw the entire batch.

• For short-term storage, place the squares in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper or wax paper in between to prevent sticking. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• For longer storage, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap. This ensures that each piece is well-protected from freezer burn and maintains its texture.

• After wrapping, place the individually wrapped squares in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Store the Southern Chess Squares in the freezer for up to 3 months. This method preserves the dessert's flavor and texture over time.

• To enjoy a frozen square, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.

• If you prefer your Southern Chess Squares warm, you can reheat them in the microwave. Place a square on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on low power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the dessert too soft.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the Southern Chess Squares on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a piece of Southern Chess Squares on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed, but be careful not to overheat as it can make the dessert rubbery.

• If you prefer a more even reheating, use a toaster oven. Set it to 300°F (150°C) and place the Southern Chess Squares on a piece of parchment paper or directly on the rack. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

• For those who enjoy a slightly crispy edge, you can reheat the Southern Chess Squares in a skillet. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and place the squares in the skillet. Cover with a lid and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.

• Oven: Used to bake the chess squares at the required temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the cake mix, melted butter, and egg, as well as for mixing the cream cheese, eggs, vanilla, and powdered sugar.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Hand mixer: Helps in beating the cream cheese until smooth and mixing the ingredients thoroughly.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring out the vanilla extract accurately.

• 9x13 inch baking pan: The pan in which you will press the cake mix layer and pour the cream cheese mixture.

• Non-stick spray: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent the chess squares from sticking.

• Cooling rack: Allows the baked chess squares to cool evenly before cutting.

• Knife: Needed for cutting the cooled chess squares into portions.

• Rubber spatula: Useful for spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake mix layer.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients like cake mix, butter, and powdered sugar before starting. This saves time during preparation.

Soften cream cheese quickly: To soften cream cheese faster, cut it into smaller pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can speed up the process of mixing the cake mix and cream cheese mixture.

Line the baking pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.

Cool faster: Place the baked chess squares on a wire rack to cool faster before cutting.