Cream Cheese Cake: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

Name: Cream Cheese Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature; 3/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3 eggs; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 1 ¼ cups buttermilk; 1 cup butter, room temperature; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 4-5 cups powdered sugar

When it comes to desserts that offer both indulgence and simplicity, nothing quite compares to a Cream Cheese Cake. This delicious treat combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with the light, airy texture of a classic cake. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to wow your guests or just craving something sweet for a cozy night in, this Cream Cheese Cake is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the details of this decadent dessert, exploring each step from the ingredients to the final bite.

Why Cream Cheese Cake is a Must-Try

There’s something about cream cheese that just elevates any dessert it touches. In this cake, the cream cheese adds a depth of flavor and moisture that makes each bite melt in your mouth. Paired with a buttery cream cheese frosting, this cake isn’t just another dessert – it’s an experience. Here’s why you need to try it:

Rich Flavor: The cream cheese gives the cake a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Moist Texture: Thanks to the cream cheese and buttermilk, this cake is incredibly moist, making it perfect for any occasion.
Easy to Make: Despite its decadent flavor, this cake is straightforward to prepare, even for novice bakers.
Versatile: The basic recipe can be customized with additional flavors like lemon, almond, or even a touch of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this Cream Cheese Cake so special:

For the Cake:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature: The star ingredient that provides a rich, tangy base.
3/4 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and a subtle flavor to the cake.

2 cups granulated sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness.
3 eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together while adding structure and richness.
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note.

3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Leavening agent that ensures the cake rises perfectly.
1 ½ teaspoons salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

1 ¼ cups buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture, creating a tender crumb.

For the Frosting:

1 cup butter, room temperature: Provides a creamy, rich base for the frosting.
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature: Adds tanginess and richness.

2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with a delightful aroma.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
4-5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake:

Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Then, mix in the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until well combined. This ensures a rich, moist cake.
Incorporate the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. This helps create a light and airy texture. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Add the Buttermilk:
- Gently fold in the buttermilk until the batter is smooth and well mixed. The buttermilk adds a slight tang and keeps the cake moist.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Preparing the Frosting:

Beat the Butter and Cream Cheese:
- In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add the Powdered Sugar:
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and salt, mixing until fully combined. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. For best results, refrigerate the cake until ready to serve.

Notes for the Perfect Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth, even batter.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense.
Chilling the Frosted Cake: For a firmer frosting, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving.

Customizing Your Cake: Add a touch of lemon zest to the batter or frosting for a citrusy twist.

Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutritional Facts

Calories: 550 kcal per serving
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g

Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 550mg
Total Carbohydrate: 67g

Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 50g
Protein: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute the buttermilk in the recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How should I store the Cream Cheese Cake?

The cake should be stored in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. It can be kept in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

What other flavors can I add to this cake?

You can add lemon zest, almond extract, or even fold in some fresh berries for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

This Cream Cheese Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. Its rich, moist texture and creamy frosting make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent treat!