Easy Chess Squares

In the South, you'll see home-baked chess squares everywhere. At farmers' markets, bakeries, office parties, and get-togethers, they're always a popular choice. As you might expect, these bars are a riff on sweet Southern classic Chess Pie and are similar to ooey gooey butter cake, which is popular in the Midwest and Philadelphia.

Why is it Called Chess Pie or Chess Squares?

Some reports indicate that the earliest chess pies were made with chestnut flour, which could somewhat account for the dessert's name. Some suggest the dessert could be named after a pie chest or a town named Chester. But the most popular origin story for the name chess pie (and in turn chess squares) is that the dessert was made using easy-to-find ingredients around the house and called "jus' pie" which turned into chess pie.

What's in a Chess Square?

This straightforward recipe uses basic ingredients, most of which you probably have in your pantry, like eggs, softened butter, cream cheese, and confectioners' sugar. These ingredients combine to create a custard-like filling reminiscent of chess pie, yielding a delightfully uncomplicated, soft, gooey-baked treat.

Are Chess Square Bars Easy to Make?

These chess squares are exceptionally easy to prepare, thanks to the inclusion of store-bought cake mix. Whether you opt for a buttery cake mix, a basic white cake mix, or a yellow cake mix, you have the flexibility to personalize the dessert. Consider experimenting with a butter pecan mix for an extra delicious twist.

Finish the chess squares with a sprinkle of sifted confectioners' sugar once they've cooled. Keep a cake mix in your pantry, and you'll always be able to whip up a batch of these delectable squares whenever the craving strikes.