Easy Cream Cheese Cake Recipe
A cream cheese cake is one of those timeless desserts that never fails to impress. With its rich, velvety texture and perfectly balanced sweetness, this cake feels indulgent yet comforting at the same time. Whether you are baking it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers a cake that is as elegant as it is easy to make.
What makes this easy cream cheese cake recipe so special is how simple it is without compromising on flavor. Using everyday ingredients, you can create a soft, moist cake with a creamy depth that comes from the cream cheese itself. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of chocolate. With just a few steps, you will have a bakery-style dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Why You Need This Recipe
This easy cream cheese cake recipe is a must have for anyone who loves desserts that feel both luxurious and effortless. Unlike many complicated cakes that require multiple layers or intricate decorations, this recipe keeps things simple while still delivering a rich, bakery style flavour. The cream cheese adds a tangy depth that balances the sweetness perfectly, making every bite smooth, moist, and satisfying.
Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it plain for a classic touch, top it with fresh berries for a refreshing twist, or drizzle it with caramel or chocolate for extra indulgence. It’s a cake that works beautifully for birthdays, holidays, or just as a special treat with your morning coffee. Once you try it, this cream cheese cake will quickly become one of your go to desserts.
Ingredients
A delightful dessert starts with the right ingredients, and this cream cheese cake is no exception. Below is a simple, well balanced list of everything you’ll need to bring this rich and moist cake to life.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz (1 block) | 800 calories |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | 400 calories |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups | 1160 calories |
| Large eggs | 4 | 280 calories |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 calories |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | 2 calories |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 0 calories |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 24 calories |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 60 calories |
Total (whole cake): ~3,636 calories
Per slice (12 servings): ~303 calories
How to Prepare
Making this easy cream cheese cake is as simple as it is rewarding. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish or round cake pan. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This step is important because it creates the rich, velvety base of your cake. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until the batter becomes light and fluffy.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture. Stir in the vanilla extract, then sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter. Finally, pour in the milk and stir until everything is well combined. Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before slicing, and enjoy the moist, tangy sweet flavour that makes this dessert a crowd favourite.
Pro Tips
To make your cream cheese cake turn out bakery perfect every time, keep these tips in mind. First, always use room temperature cream cheese and butter. This ensures they blend smoothly, creating that silky batter you’re aiming for. Cold ingredients can leave lumps and prevent the cake from achieving its soft, even texture.
Second, avoid over mixing once the flour is added. Over mixing develops too much gluten, which can make your cake dense instead of light and tender. It’s also a good idea to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. For an extra moist cake, consider substituting a splash of sour cream or yogurt for part of the milk. Finally, let the cake cool completely before slicing it will set properly and give you those clean, beautiful slices perfect for serving.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
This cream cheese cake is delicious on its own, but the right pairings and toppings can take it to the next level. Fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing burst of flavour and a pop of colour that balances the cake’s richness. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can also give it an elegant finish for when you want something quick and easy.
If you’re in the mood for extra indulgence, drizzle the cake with warm caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or even a tangy lemon glaze. Whipped cream on the side works beautifully for a lighter touch, while a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream makes it an irresistible dessert after dinner. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up, this cream cheese cake is versatile enough to pair with any flavor you love.
Conclusion
A homemade cream cheese cake is one of those timeless desserts that never fails to impress. With its soft, moist crumb and rich, creamy flavor, it strikes the perfect balance between simple and indulgent. Whether you serve it plain, topped with fruit, or drizzled with your favorite sauce, this cake has a way of bringing comfort and joy to any table.
The best part is how easy it is to make, even for beginner bakers. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a treat with coffee or tea, this cream cheese cake will quickly become a favourite in your recipe collection.
