If you have a sweet tooth and love a dessert that’s rich, moist, and delightfully tangy, then the Cream Cheese Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This luscious cake combines the smooth creaminess of cream cheese with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a celebratory dessert or simply craving something special with your afternoon tea, this cake promises a comfortingly indulgent experience every time you bake it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cream Cheese Cake Recipe is carefully chosen to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the rich cream cheese that adds depth, to the simple flour and sugar that form the cake’s tender base, every component plays a vital role in delivering a deliciously satisfying bite.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake incredibly soft without overpowering flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, binding the ingredients together perfectly.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the show, lending a velvety tang that distinguishes this cake.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s soft and tender crumb foundation.
- Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises nicely and stays light.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Powdered sugar: Used in the optional glaze for an elegant, sweet finish.
- Milk or cream: Adds a silky smooth texture to the glaze when combined with powdered sugar.
How to Make Cream Cheese Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to ensure your cake will come out cleanly once baked. This simple prep will save you from any sticky situations later.
Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, mixing well to create a sweet, velvety base that’s perfectly even and free of lumps. This step is key to that famously silky texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a light, fluffy batter. Stir in the vanilla extract next — this fragrant addition will bring a subtle warmth and richness to every bite.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix Gently
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender and soft.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly as the cake rises and forms a beautifully golden top.
Step 6: Cool and Remove from Pan
Allow the cake to cool fully in the pan to set its delicate structure. Once cool, carefully release the sides of the springform pan to reveal the flawless cake beneath, ready for the finishing touches.
Step 7: (Optional) Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
For an extra hint of sweetness and an elegant presentation, whisk together powdered sugar and milk or cream until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled cake. The glaze adds a glossy finish and just the right amount of sugary charm.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cream Cheese Cake Recipe truly pop, consider topping it with fresh berries, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon. These garnishes not only add a burst of color but also introduce complementary flavors that lift the cake even further.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of whipped cream with a dash of citrus zest can create a contrasting brightness that makes every bite exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on pretty dessert plates with edible flowers or elegant silverware to elevate the experience. You can also transform this recipe into mini cakes by baking in cupcake tins and decorating with piped frosting and fruit for a charming party treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Cream Cheese Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, which means more delicious bites whenever you crave them.
Freezing
For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer-safe bag or container. When well wrapped, it can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture or delightful flavor.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator. Warm up individual slices gently around room temperature or in a microwave for a few seconds to enhance that just-baked softness. Avoid overheating to keep it moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese can be used, keep in mind that it may slightly affect the richness and texture. For the best creamy and smooth result, full-fat cream cheese is recommended.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal because it allows you to remove the cake easily without damaging its delicate sides, but you can use a regular cake pan—just be sure to grease it very well and possibly line with parchment paper.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this cake?
Absolutely! Vanilla is classic, but adding lemon zest, chocolate chips, or swirls of berry jam can give delightful twists to this Cream Cheese Cake Recipe, making it uniquely yours.
Why does the recipe call for vegetable oil instead of butter?
Vegetable oil keeps the cake moist and tender without the heavier texture that butter can sometimes bring, lending a lighter finish that lets the cream cheese flavor shine.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is to insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging, the cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a slice of homemade Cream Cheese Cake Recipe, and now you have a straightforward and delicious recipe to make it yourself. This cake’s tender crumb and creamy tang make it a hit across all ages and occasions. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and bake a cake that feels like a hug from the inside out—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cream Cheese Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and rich cream cheese cake combines the smoothness of cream cheese with a tender, moist cake base. Perfect as a delightful dessert for any occasion, this cake features a light vanilla flavor and an optional sweet glaze that adds an extra touch of decadence.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Glaze (Optional)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing well to create a smooth base.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract to add flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet cream cheese mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before carefully removing the sides of the springform to avoid breaking.
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional): Whisk together the powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or cream until smooth. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake texture light and tender.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, use a regular 9-inch round cake pan and grease well.
- The glaze is optional, but it adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
