Cream Cheese Cake – Light, Moist, and Irresistibly Creamy

Introduction

Some cakes are meant to impress, while others are designed to bring comfort. The Cream Cheese Cake does both effortlessly. This luscious dessert combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with a soft, moist crumb that melts in your mouth. Unlike traditional cheesecake, which tends to be heavy and dense, this cake bakes into a lighter, airier texture that still delivers that signature cream cheese flavor.

Whether you serve it plain, topped with a handful of fresh berries, drizzled with honey, or lightly dusted with powdered sugar, Cream Cheese Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s ideal for family gatherings, afternoon coffee breaks, or holiday celebrations. Best of all, it’s easy to make using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

If you love easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, pair this cake with other favorites like Lemon Cream Cake or the nostalgic Pineapple Layer Cake with Glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Cake

• Perfect texture: Moist, tender, and slightly tangy.

• Simple ingredients: Everything you need is pantry-friendly.

• Versatile: Serve it plain or with creative toppings.

• Easy to bake: Beginner-friendly with step-by-step directions.

• Crowd-pleaser: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, holidays, or birthdays.

Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients to make a perfect Cream Cheese Cake:

• 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, room temperature

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Optional Additions:

• Zest of 1 lemon or orange for citrus brightness

• Pinch of fine sea salt to balance flavors

• ¼ teaspoon almond extract for a bakery-style aroma

Directions

Step 1: Prep & Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour an 8- or 9-inch round cake pan, or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and continue beating until fully combined.
Mix in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract and melted butter, mixing until smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake light and tender.

Step 4: Bake the Cream Cheese Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Cool & Serve

Allow the Cream Cheese Cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Dust with powdered sugar, top with fresh fruit, or drizzle with honey for an elegant finish.

Tips & Variations

• Room temperature ingredients: Soft cream cheese and warm eggs make for a smooth batter.

• Citrus twist: Add orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing flavor.

• Nut topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for a crunchy texture.

• Berry swirl: Swirl in raspberry or blueberry jam before baking for a beautiful marble effect.

• Mini cakes: Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–22 minutes for individual servings.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 1 day in a cool area.

• Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Cream Cheese Cake pairs wonderfully with:

• A side of whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.

• A simple cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

• Light, refreshing sides like Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Yield: 8–10 servings

Tools Needed

• 8- or 9-inch round cake pan

• Electric mixer or hand whisk

• Mixing bowls

• Rubber spatula

• Wire cooling rack

• Measuring cups and spoons

Final Thoughts

The Cream Cheese Cake is a timeless dessert that’s simple yet elegant. With its velvety texture and subtle tang, it’s perfect for everyday indulgence or special occasions. Serve it plain for a rustic touch or dress it up with your favorite toppings.

For an impressive dessert spread, pair it with the bright, tangy flavors of Lemon Cream Cake or the retro charm of Pineapple Layer Cake with Glaze. For additional baking tips and inspiration, explore Allrecipes.

TINSUF RECIPES

Cream Cheese Cake

A moist, tangy, and tender cake that combines the richness of cream cheese with a soft, cake-like texture. Perfect for any occasion and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course: cake

Cuisine: American

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled

Equipment

• 8- or 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixer or whisk
• - Mixing bowls
• - Rubber spatula
• - Cooling rack

Method

 

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sugar.
2. Add eggs one at a time, blending well.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
4. Gently fold in flour until just combined.
5. Pour batter into pan and bake for 45–50 minutes.
6. Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve plain, with powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

Add citrus zest for a refreshing twist.

Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.

Perfect base for fruit toppings or glazes.