Cream Cheese Cake

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with velvety textures and rich flavors as we delve into the world of Cream Cheese Cake. This indulgent dessert combines the creamy goodness of cream cheese with the sweetness of cake to create a treat that is simply irresistible. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from gathering the ingredients to putting the finishing touches on your masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

For the Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk, or as needed for consistency

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, and softened cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

For the Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
3. If needed, add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
5. Slice and serve, then enjoy the creamy goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
• Customization: Feel free to add your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Keto Version

• Cake: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia instead of granulated sugar.
• Frosting: Replace powdered sugar with a powdered sugar substitute such as powdered erythritol or a blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and a keto sweetener.

Low-Carb Version

• Cake: Utilize almond flour or coconut flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour, and choose a low-carb sweetener instead of granulated sugar.
• Frosting: Opt for a frosting made with cream cheese, unsalted butter, and a low-carb sweetener, such as powdered erythritol or stevia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream in equal amounts for a slightly tangier flavor.

Q: Can I freeze cream cheese cake? A: Yes, you can freeze cream cheese cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: How can I prevent my cream cheese frosting from becoming too runny? A: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted before beating. Gradually add powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved, and if needed, refrigerate the frosting for a short while to firm it up.

Q: Can I make this cake in advance? A: Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Frost the cake just before serving for the best results.

In conclusion, Cream Cheese Cake offers a delightful combination of creamy richness and sweet indulgence that is sure to impress even the most discerning dessert lovers. Whether you opt for the classic recipe or experiment with keto or low-carb variations, this decadent treat is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible allure of Cream Cheese Cake!