Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, vanilla extract, and 2 eggs. Mix until a thick, stiff dough forms.
  3. Press the dough mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the remaining 2 eggs one at a time, followed by the granulated sugar, salt, and lemon juice until the mixture is pale and velvety.
  5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base and spread evenly with a spatula.
  6. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and golden-brown while the center still retains a slight custard-like jiggle.
  7. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to let the gooey structure set.