This traditional cream cheese cake is a delicious dessert that mixes the tasty cream cheese flavor with a light and fluffy cake. The smooth icing gives just the right amount of sweetness
This Cream Cheese Cake is the perfect blend of moist, fluffy cake and luscious cream cheese icing. With its rich texture and timeless flavor, it’s an ideal dessert for any occasion—whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy night at home.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cake
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. - Cream Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and softened cream cheese together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). - Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. - Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated and smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract. - Adjust Consistency:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk, a little at a time, until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
Step 3: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top.
Customization Ideas
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Berry Compote: Serve slices with a side of berry compote or fresh strawberries for a tangy contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the frosting for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect on its own or paired with coffee or tea. Serve it as a dessert for special occasions or enjoy it as an indulgent afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Moist: The cream cheese in the batter ensures every bite is soft and flavorful.
- Luscious Icing: The cream cheese icing is perfectly sweet and creamy.
- Customizable: Simple enough for everyday baking but versatile for special occasions.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The cake can be frozen (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic cream cheese cake—simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser! Share your results and any fun variations in the comments below. 😊