Cream Cheese Cake Recipe: Soft, Moist & Irresistible
Cake lovers, get ready for a rich, creamy, and ultra-moist dessert that will melt in your mouth! This Cream Cheese Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a deliciously soft texture and a hint of vanilla flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a birthday, or just because you crave something sweet, this easy homemade cake will quickly become your favorite.
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the buttery richness and velvety smoothness of a well-made Cream Cheese Cake. The secret to this cake’s amazing texture lies in the cream cheese, which adds extra moisture, a slight tang, and a perfectly dense crumb. Unlike traditional pound cakes or sponge cakes, this recipe combines the best of both worlds—light and fluffy yet rich and creamy.
What makes this recipe even better? It’s simple to make with basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen! With just a few steps and minimal effort, you’ll have a bakery-style cake that pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Ingredients
To create this decadent Cream Cheese Cake, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 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 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty aroma
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange for a citrusy twist
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra indulgence
How to Make Cream Cheese Cake
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, vegetable oil, and sugar together until smooth and creamy. This step ensures a light and airy texture.
3. Add the Eggs & Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract (and almond extract, if using) to enhance the flavor.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
5. Pour & Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as is, or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Helpful Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps achieve a smooth batter with even mixing.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accurate results.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the cake, so check for doneness around the 35-minute mark.
- Customize the Flavor: Experiment with different extracts, citrus zest, or add-ins like nuts or chocolate.
Cooking Tips
To make your Cream Cheese Cake even better, try these expert tips:
- Extra Moist Cake: Swap vegetable oil for melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Lighter Version: Reduce sugar slightly and replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
- For a Layer Cake: Double the recipe and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting or fruit preserves between layers.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake can be enjoyed in many ways. Try pairing it with:
- Fresh berries and whipped cream for a light, fruity touch
- Drizzled caramel or chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert
- A cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat
- Ice cream for an extra indulgent experience
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 4%
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave for 15 seconds for a warm, soft texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the cake will be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can I make this into cupcakes?
Absolutely! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
What frosting goes well with this cake?
Cream cheese frosting, vanilla buttercream, or a simple glaze work perfectly.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Cream Cheese Cake, try these other delicious bakes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Cake is the ultimate combination of rich, moist, and fluffy textures, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a no-fail dessert that’s sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a deliciously creamy homemade cake with every bite! 🍰✨