A moist and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion, this Cream Cheese Cake is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The addition of an optional glaze provides a touch of sweetness and elegance, making it a showstopper for both casual and formal gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The cream cheese creates an irresistibly moist and rich texture.
It’s easy to prepare with basic pantry ingredients.
Perfect for any event, from birthdays to dinner parties.
The optional glaze adds a delightful finishing touch.
Pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze (optional):
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing and flouring it.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing the sides of the springform pan.
For the optional glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or cream in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
Citrus Twist: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the batter for a bright and tangy flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the glaze for added crunch.
Berry Infusion: Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of berry compote for a fruity contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, heat a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
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FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, but the cake may not be as rich and creamy as it would be with full-fat cream cheese.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but the texture may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of a springform pan?
A regular 9-inch round cake pan will work, but you’ll need to carefully remove the cake to avoid breaking it.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! The cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds a touch of sweetness and a polished look.
Conclusion
This cream cheese cake is a classic dessert that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. With its rich, creamy texture and endless customization options, it’s a recipe I turn to again and again. Whether you serve it plain, glazed, or paired with fruit, this cake is sure to impress.
📖 Recipe:
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Cream Cheese Cake
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy decadence of this Cream Cheese Cake—a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for any occasion. With a moist texture, tangy cream cheese flavor, and optional glaze for added sweetness, this cake is a crowd-pleaser you’ll love making again and again.
Ingredients
Cake:
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Glaze (Optional):
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing the sides.
- (Optional) Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar and milk/cream until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Notes
For a zesty twist, add lemon or orange zest to the batter.
Chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be mixed into the batter for variety.
Best served with fresh fruit or a hot beverage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
