Description
A rich and creamy cream cheese cake that combines a soft vanilla cake base with the smoothness of cream cheese. This dense yet tender dessert is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed plain or topped with fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, softened cream cheese, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth texture for the cake.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain a well-emulsified batter.
- Stir in Vanilla Extract: Add the vanilla extract to the batter to infuse a sweet aromatic flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps it set and prevents sogginess.
Notes
- This cake is delicious on its own or topped with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
- For added richness, drizzle with a simple cream cheese glaze or lemon icing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
