1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz/432g)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Filling:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 lb/450g)
For the Topping:
1/3 cup red and green sprinkles
1/2 cup white chocolate chips or mini marshmallows (optional)
Directions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until it forms a soft dough. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the filling: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Slowly pour in the melted butter while continuing to mix.
Sweeten the filling: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the bars: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the red and green sprinkles evenly over the top, along with the optional white chocolate chips or mini marshmallows for extra flair.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will remain slightly gooey—this is what makes them irresistible!
Cool and cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or rectangles. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing.