If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, rich, and guaranteed to wow your taste buds, this Cream Cheese Cake is the one. It’s got that perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet, smooth cake. It’s not too heavy but still feels indulgent enough for any special occasion (or just because you deserve something amazing!). Imagine a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with that signature creamy bite that makes you smile after every forkful. Whether you’re serving it for a party or treating yourself, this cake is a real crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This isn’t your average cake—it’s an experience in every bite. Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for this one:
Creamy and Dreamy
The cream cheese filling adds a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. It’s the best of both worlds!
Perfect for Any Occasion
From birthday parties to casual get-togethers, this cake works for any celebration. It’s elegant yet approachable—everyone will want a second slice!
Simple to Make
Don’t worry about complicated techniques! This recipe keeps it easy and straightforward, making it great even for beginners. You don’t have to be a pro baker to make something this delicious.
Versatile
Top it with fruit, chocolate ganache, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. This cake can be dressed up however you like!
Ingredients in Cream Cheese Cake
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this cake so irresistible:
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! It gives the cake its signature rich, tangy flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling and balances out the tang.
Eggs: Adds structure and richness to the cake and cream cheese mixture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake. It creates a soft, tender crumb.
Baking Powder: Gives the cake a light texture and helps it rise perfectly.
Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cake itself.
Milk: Helps bring everything together and gives the cake its perfect consistency.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into how to create this creamy masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pan with butter or cooking spray. This will help the cake come out easily after baking.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside.
Make the Cake Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the milk and mix until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until smooth.
Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Then, spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Top with the remaining cake batter, making sure it covers the cream cheese layer as evenly as possible.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly moist.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once it’s fully cooled.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to Serve Cream Cheese Cake
This cake is delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to jazz it up, here are a few ideas:
Fresh Berries: Top the cake with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the top for an indulgent touch.
Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the dense cake.
Fruit Compote: Pair it with a simple fruit compote (like mixed berries or peaches) for a sweet and tart flavor contrast.
Coffee or Tea: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea—perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Additional Tips
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
For a smoother batter, make sure your cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
Avoid Overmixing
Be gentle when combining the ingredients to ensure a soft, tender cake. Overmixing can make the texture dense.
Chill Before Serving
For a firmer texture and enhanced flavor, chill the cake for an hour or two before slicing. The flavors will meld together even more beautifully.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake gets even better the next day!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This cake actually stores well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate.
Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A2: While cream cheese is ideal for this recipe, you could try ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different flavor.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake?
A3: Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q4: Can I add fruit to the batter?
A4: Yes! Fresh or frozen berries would be a delicious addition to the batter. Just make sure to fold them in gently to avoid sogginess.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Definitely! Just make sure to adjust your baking time if you’re using a larger pan.
Q6: Can I add a glaze to the top?
A6: Yes! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk would be perfect on top.
Q7: Is this cake gluten-free?
A7: You can make this gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q8: What kind of pan should I use?
A8: A 9-inch round cake pan works great for this recipe, but you can also use an 8-inch square pan if you prefer.
Q9: Can I make this without sugar?
A9: You can try using a sugar substitute, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Q10: How do I know when the cake is done?
A10: The cake should be golden brown around the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
In Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Cake is rich, creamy, and utterly delicious—a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its smooth texture and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just want something sweet, this cake will never disappoint. Enjoy every bite and share the love!
Print
Cream Cheese Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy, soft cake features a rich cream cheese base and a delicate texture. Optional glaze adds sweetness, making it a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until fully combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing the sides of the pan.
- Make the Glaze (optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk or cream until smooth.
- Glaze the Cake (optional):
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake if desired.
Notes
- For a Richer Flavor: Use full-fat cream cheese for a creamier texture.
- Add-Ins: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, or 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries to the batter for added flavor.
- No-Bake Option: Omit the baking step and chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours until it sets completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg