Cream Cheese Cake
This tender and creamy cake is simple yet indulgent, making it perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a light glaze or enjoy it plain—it’s delicious either way!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter, for a richer flavor)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure 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
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant flavor boost.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently with a spatula or on low speed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cake to a serving plate.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or cream until smooth and pourable.
Step 9: Glaze and Serve (Optional)
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness and presentation. Slice and serve!
Tips for Success
Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
Pan Prep: If you don’t have a springform pan, use a 9-inch round or square cake pan, lining it with parchment for easy removal.
Texture: Avoid overmixing once you add the flour, as it can make the cake dense instead of tender.
Variations
Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing flavor.
Berry Bliss: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or diced strawberries.
Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
Chocolate Lover: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or swirl in a few tablespoons of melted chocolate before baking.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage or if glazed, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days.
Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 8
Enjoy this creamy and versatile Cream Cheese Cake—a simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to please!
