Description
These vibrant Margarita Bars combine a zesty yellow cake crust with a creamy tequila-infused filling, perfectly capturing the flavors of a classic margarita in dessert form. Topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, lime zest, and margarita salt, these bars are a refreshing and indulgent treat ideal for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 Egg, room temperature
- 2 tsp Lime Zest (from 1 whole lime)
Filling
- 1 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups Powdered Sugar
- 2 Eggs, room temperature
- 3 oz Tequila
- 2 oz Margarita Mix
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 tsp Lime Zest
Topping
- ¼ cup Powdered Sugar
- 2 tsp Lime Zest
- 2 tsp Margarita Salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the baking temperature is ready when your batter is prepared.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spray the dish with non-stick baking spray first, then place the parchment paper, and spray again on top to prevent sticking.
- Make Crust Mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, 1 room temperature egg, and 2 teaspoons of lime zest. Mix on medium to high speed until the ingredients form a cohesive dough ball.
- Press Crust: Transfer the crust dough ball to the prepared baking dish and press evenly into the bottom to create a uniform crust layer. Set aside.
- Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 eggs, tequila, margarita mix, vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons of lime zest. Using an electric mixer, blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the creamy filling over the pressed crust in the baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula for even coverage.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges develop a light golden brown color and the filling is set.
- Cool: Remove the margarita bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the dish for about 1 hour to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooled, sprinkle the top evenly with powdered sugar, margarita salt, and additional lime zest to enhance the tart and salty flavors. Cut into 8 to 8 servings and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, ensure all eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
- You can adjust the amount of tequila and margarita mix to taste, but be cautious not to add too much liquid as it may affect the texture.
- Use a spatula to press the crust firmly for an even base that holds the filling well.
- Chilling the bars in the refrigerator after cooling can improve slicing and enhance flavor fusion.
- Margarita salt can be substituted with coarse sea salt mixed with chili powder for a spicy twist.
