Introduction
A cream cheese cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, creamy flavors wrapped in a tender, moist texture. This recipe is simple to make yet tastes like it came from a professional bakery. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat after dinner, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- Optional: powdered sugar or cream cheese frosting for topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Cake
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to create a smoother batter. Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added—this keeps the cake tender and moist. For an extra decadent treat, frost the cooled cake with cream cheese frosting or dust it with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.
Serving Ideas
Serve slices of cream cheese cake with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce. Pair it with a cup of coffee or hot tea for a cozy afternoon dessert. It’s also perfect for brunch tables or holiday gatherings because it balances richness and sweetness beautifully.
Conclusion
This cream cheese cake recipe is easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. With its soft crumb and creamy taste, it’s bound to become one of your go-to dessert recipes. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself baking it again and again for every special occasion—or just because you deserve something sweet.