This Cream Cheese Cake is the perfect balance of creamy, rich, and mildly tangy flavors wrapped in a soft, velvety texture. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a decadent dessert that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to prepare. Unlike traditional cheesecakes that require water baths and long baking times, this recipe delivers all the luxurious flavor with half the hassle. Whether served plain or topped with fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (170g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- A drizzle of honey or melted chocolate
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Set the dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Incorporating the Cream Cheese
- Gradually mix in the softened cream cheese, ensuring it blends smoothly into the batter.
- Beat for an additional 1–2 minutes until creamy.
Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and milk into the batter, mixing gently until just combined.
- Avoid overmixing to maintain a light, tender texture.
Step 6: Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.
Step 7: Serving and Garnishing
- Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar, or decorate with fresh berries.
- Serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra indulgent touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No complicated techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Versatile flavors—pairs well with fruit, chocolate, or simple powdered sugar.
- Soft, creamy texture with a slight tang from cream cheese.
- Perfect for beginner bakers or quick dessert cravings.
Would you like variations on this cake, such as adding citrus zest or a chocolate swirl? Let me know how you’d love to customize it!