Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Bars

Just a few days ago Meloday on Cheat Day Cafe posted this recipe with such tempting photos that I couldn't stop thinking about. I was at the store when I remembered that I wanted to make these. I hadn't written down the ingredients so I bought a chocolate fudge cake mix. I think I might use that kind again next time, but I'm sure it's good with the German chocolate too.

I did add almond extract to the cream cheese mixture cause I like it. For some reason I've been in the mood for caramel lately so just on my piece (Alex and Elisa can't have caramel due to braces and Sabrina didn't eat any) I drizzled some caramel. I tried a small sliver without the caramel and then my small piece with caramel. They are both outstanding!! So easy, but so good. Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Bars

1 (18-1/4-oz.) pkg. German chocolate cake mix
1/3 c. canola oil
1 egg
FILLING:
1 (8-oz.) pkg. reduced-fat cream cheese
1/3 c. sugar
1 egg
1 c. miniature semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, oil and egg. Set aside 1 cup for topping. Press remaining crumb mixture into a 9x13-inch baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set.

For filling, in a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg; beat well. Spread over crust. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and reserved crumb mixture. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until set. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 2 dozen.