Traditional Cream Cheese Cake

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If you’re craving a dessert that balances rich creaminess with a light and airy texture, look no further than this Traditional Cream Cheese Cake. With its tender, moist crumb and smooth cream cheese icing, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a special celebration, or a simple treat for yourself. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delightful dessert at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake offers the ideal combination of lightness and richness. The cream cheese in the batter brings a hint of tanginess, which balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cake and icing. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent but not overly sweet—just the right touch for anyone who enjoys a creamy, balanced flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup whole milk, at room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Icing

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cake

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and softened cream cheese together on medium speed until light and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract to incorporate.

5. Add Dry Ingredients and Milk

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a fluffy texture.

6. Bake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and well-blended.
  • Add the vanilla extract and thin the icing with 1-2 tablespoons of milk until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Frost the Cake

  • Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top.

Customization Ideas

Looking to put a unique spin on this traditional cream cheese cake? Try these customization options:

  • Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
  • Berry Compote: Serve with a side of berry compote or fresh strawberries for a tangy contrast.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the frosting for added texture and flavor.

Tips for Success

To ensure a fluffy, light texture and smooth icing, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth, well-combined batter and frosting.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Cool the Cake Before Icing: To avoid a melted frosting mess, make sure the cake is completely cool before applying the icing.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the icing slightly.

Perfect Pairings

This traditional cream cheese cake is versatile enough to pair with a variety of beverages and side treats:

  • Tea or Coffee: A hot cup of tea or coffee complements the creamy texture and rich flavor of the cake.
  • Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced fresh berries or a fruit salad for a refreshing, lighter pairing.

Conclusion

This Traditional Cream Cheese Cake is sure to become a favorite with its light, fluffy texture and perfectly sweet cream cheese icing. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying this as your first dessert recipe, you’ll love how easy it is to make—and how delicious it is to eat. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful treat that will have you coming back for seconds!

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