Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cream cheese cake! It’s like a hug in dessert form—rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible. I first made this cake for a family gathering, and it was gone in a flash! The smooth texture from the cream cheese just melts in your mouth, and the subtle sweetness keeps you coming back for more. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a cozy dinner with friends, or just because you want something sweet. Trust me, once you try a slice, you’ll be dreaming about it! It’s the kind of cake that makes every moment a little sweeter.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Cake
To make this dreamy cream cheese cake, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cream cheese (softened to room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 cup sugar (adds that perfect sweetness)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for structure)
- 4 large eggs (bring them to room temperature for better blending)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a hint of warmth)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess and tang)
- 1/4 cup butter (softened, to help create a rich texture)
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. It really makes a difference!
How to Prepare Cream Cheese Cake
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is so important because it helps the cake rise evenly and gives it that perfect texture. While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready to mix!
Mixing the Batter
Now, in a large mixing bowl, I start by beating the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth—this is key! Then, I add in the sugar and mix until they’re well combined and creamy. One by one, I incorporate the large eggs, making sure to mix thoroughly after each addition; this really helps the batter come together nicely. Next, I stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, which brings such a lovely richness to the cake. Finally, I gently fold in the flour until just combined—be careful not to overmix, or the cake can turn out dense. Once everything is mixed, the batter should be thick and luscious!
Baking the Cake
Pour that beautiful batter into a greased cake pan, and it’s time to bake! I usually let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, I gently shake the pan; the center should be set and not jiggle too much. Once it’s done, I take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for a bit. This cooling time is crucial—resist the urge to dig in right away! After about 15 minutes, I transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, letting it cool really enhances the flavor and texture!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t skip the preheating step—it’s crucial for even baking!
- When mixing, add the eggs one at a time to ensure they’re well incorporated.
- Be gentle when folding in the flour to avoid a dense cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor.
- For a fun twist, try adding lemon zest or chocolate chips to the batter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cream cheese cake is truly a showstopper, and here’s why you’re going to love it:
- It’s rich and creamy, with a texture that’s simply divine.
- Perfect for gatherings, it impresses guests every single time.
- Easy to make, with minimal fuss—great for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile enough to be dressed up with fruits or served plain.
- Each slice is a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Trust me, this cake will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content for a slice of this delicious cream cheese cake:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
Keep in mind that these values may vary based on specific ingredients used, but it gives you a good idea of the cake’s rich indulgence!
FAQ Section
I know you might have some questions about this cream cheese cake, so let’s dive into a few common ones!
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but keep in mind that it might alter the texture a bit. The cake may not be as rich and creamy, but it’ll still taste delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep this cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before you cover it!
Can I freeze this cream cheese cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can really let your creativity shine here!
Why did my cake crack on top?
Cracks can happen from overmixing the batter or baking at too high a temperature. Make sure to mix gently and stick to the recommended baking time for the best results!
Hopefully, these answers help you create the perfect cream cheese cake!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your cream cheese cake fresh and delicious, make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for up to a week, but trust me, it’s so yummy that it might not last that long! If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it’ll be good for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. No reheating necessary—just slice and savor the creamy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this creamy, dreamy cake ready to go, let’s talk about how to make it even more special! I love serving my cream cheese cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top—it adds such a light, fluffy contrast to the richness of the cake. Fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for a decadent touch. Trust me, each bite will be an absolute delight!
For more tips on baking cakes, you can check out King Arthur Baking’s guide on cake baking.
Print
Cream Cheese Cake: 5 Steps to Irresistible Delight
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy cake made with cream cheese for a smooth texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and mix until well combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Gradually add flour and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Top with fruit or whipped cream for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cream cheese cake, cheesecake, dessert
