Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

Irresistibly Fluffy Cream Cheese Cake Recipe For Sweet Moments

Decadent and silky-smooth, this cream cheese cake recipe offers pure dessert bliss that melts in your mouth.

Rich cream cheese creates a velvety texture unlike any ordinary cake.

Creamy layers promise absolute indulgence with every single bite.

The secret lies in perfectly balanced ingredients that dance together harmoniously.

Each slice delivers a luxurious experience that makes ordinary moments extraordinary.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this delightful dessert and impress everyone around the table.

Prepare to transform your sweet moments with this irresistible cake that celebrates pure culinary joy.

What Makes Cream Cheese Cake So Irresistible

  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Southern Pineapple Casserole delivers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that instantly wins over family and friends at potlucks and gatherings.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Combine ingredients in just a few simple steps, making this recipe a stress-free option for busy cooks who want a delicious side dish without complicated techniques.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Works brilliantly as a unique side dish for holiday meals, summer barbecues, or casual weeknight dinners, bringing a touch of Southern charm to any meal.
  • Texture Sensation: Enjoy a delightful contrast between the soft, sweet pineapple filling and the crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker topping that adds an irresistible texture to every bite.

Ingredients For Cream Cheese Cake

Main Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: A rich and creamy dairy product that gives the cake a smooth texture and tangy flavor.
  • Butter: Provides moisture and richness to the cake's overall taste and texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: The primary structure-building ingredient that gives the cake its form and consistency.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Liquid and Binding Ingredients:
  • Eggs, Milk, Vanilla Extract: Work together to add moisture, bind the ingredients, and provide a delicate flavor to the cake.
  • Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract (for glaze): Creates a sweet, smooth topping that adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Clear Instructions For Cream Cheese Cake Preparation

Clear Instructions For Cream Cheese Cake Preparation

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 350F (175C). Grab a loaf or bundt pan and lightly coat it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a mixing bowl. Set this powdery mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Whip Creamy Base

  • Cream cheese
  • Butter
  • Granulated sugar

Beat these ingredients in a large bowl until they transform into a fluffy, light mixture. Keep mixing for about 3-5 minutes to achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor

Gently add eggs one at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition. Pour in vanilla extract and blend until the mixture looks silky and uniform.

Step 5: Marry Ingredients Together

Slowly fold the dry ingredient blend into the creamy mixture. Alternate adding milk to create a velvety, lump-free batter.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Rest

Allow the cake to sit in the pan for 10 minutes.

Carefully transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely.

Step 9: Optional Heavenly Glaze

  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk these ingredients until smooth.

Drizzle the glossy glaze over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.

Helpful Tips To Perfect Cream Cheese Cake

  • Ensure cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing and optimal cake texture.
  • Avoid overmixing batter and bake in the center of the oven to achieve an even, crack-free surface.
  • Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted near the center to confirm complete baking without overbaking.
  • Add a touch of lemon zest or almond extract to boost the cake's aromatic profile and create a more complex taste.
  • Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain moisture and freshness.

Creative Twists To Try On Cream Cheese Cake

  • Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Cake: Add fresh lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the creamy texture.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend to make the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Chocolate Swirl Cream Cheese Cake: Incorporate melted dark chocolate into half the batter and create a marbled effect by swirling the batters together before baking.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the cake's rich flavor profile.

Best Pairings To Serve With Cream Cheese Cake

  • Sweet Wine Companion: Serve a chilled Moscato or Riesling to complement the cake's creamy texture. These light, sweet wines enhance the dessert's richness without overpowering its delicate flavor profile.
  • Fruity Espresso Match: Brew a smooth espresso or cappuccino with hints of berry or caramel notes. The coffee's robust character balances the cake's sweetness while providing a delightful contrast.
  • Fresh Berry Boost: Top the cake with fresh raspberries or strawberries. These bright, tangy fruits cut through the cake's richness and add a vibrant, refreshing element to each bite.

Tips To Store Cream Cheese Cake Properly

  • Store the cream cheese cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Slice the cake, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Keep the cake at room temperature for 1-2 days in a covered cake dome or container. Ensure the area is cool and dry to prevent spoilage.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. For a crisp exterior, use the oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes, which helps restore the cake's original texture and warmth.

FAQs

  • What makes cream cheese cake different from other cakes?

Cream cheese provides extra moisture and a rich, tangy flavor that creates a more dense and creamy texture compared to traditional butter-based cakes.

  • Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Regular full-fat cream cheese works best for achieving the richest flavor and optimal texture. Low-fat versions might change the cake’s consistency and taste.

  • How do I know when the cream cheese cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the cake’s center – if it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly firm to touch.

  • Why is it important to add eggs one at a time?

Adding eggs individually helps create a smoother, more uniform batter by allowing each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next, preventing lumps and ensuring even mixing.

Print
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Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

Cream Cheese Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent cream cheese cake beckons with silky smoothness and rich flavor that whispers pure comfort. Creamy layers melt perfectly on palates, promising delightful moments of sweet bliss you’ll savor with each luxurious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 1/4 cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (175°C) and coating a loaf or bundt pan with a thin layer of grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a dry ingredient foundation by combining flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, then set aside for future incorporation.
  3. Transform cream cheese, butter, and granulated sugar into a fluffy, well-integrated mixture using an electric mixer, continuing until the texture becomes light and airy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
  4. Introduce eggs individually into the creamy base, ensuring thorough blending after each addition, then incorporate vanilla extract for enhanced flavor complexity.
  5. Gradually fold the reserved dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with milk to maintain a smooth, homogeneous batter consistency.
  6. Transfer the prepared batter into the greased pan, carefully smoothing the surface to ensure even distribution and professional presentation.
  7. Position the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, monitoring until a toothpick inserted into the cake’s center emerges clean and dry.
  8. Allow the freshly baked cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently transfer to a wire cooling rack for complete temperature reduction.
  9. Optional finishing touch: whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract into a silky glaze, then artfully drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Notes

  • Cream cheese temperature matters significantly for achieving a smooth, creamy cake texture. Remove cream cheese and butter from refrigerator 30-60 minutes before baking to reach room temperature.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter after adding flour to prevent a tough, dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined to maintain a light, tender crumb.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and most luxurious texture. Low-fat or non-fat versions can make the cake less moist and flavorful.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the cake’s delicate structure and taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 431
  • Sugar: 38 g
  • Sodium: 176 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 108 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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