In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 0.5 teaspoons of salt. Whisk together until well blended.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, and 0.5 cups of melted unsalted butter until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Filling Preparation

Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 0.5 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Assembly and Baking

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Baking Pan

Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.

Layer the Mixture

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips and 0.5 cups of chopped nuts on top of the final batter layer.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the Jersey Turnpike to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.