Cream Cheese Cake

Dive into the divine world of baking with our delectable Cream Cheese Cake recipe. This indulgent treat boasts a rich and creamy texture, balanced with the perfect amount of sweetness, making it a favorite dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a slice of bliss, this cake is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, preheat those ovens, and embark on a journey to culinary delight!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 ¼ cups buttermilk

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing well after each addition.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

For the Frosting:

1. Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or icing knife.
5. Decorate (Optional): If desired, decorate the frosted cake with additional toppings such as fresh fruit, chopped nuts, or chocolate shavings.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the Cream Cheese Cake into squares and serve it chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy every decadent bite!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Enhance Flavor: Add a hint of lemon zest or almond extract to the cake batter for a subtle yet refreshing twist.
• Texture Variation: For a denser texture, reduce the amount of buttermilk used in the cake batter. Conversely, for a lighter texture, increase the amount of buttermilk.
• Nutty Addition: Fold chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the cake batter for added crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting? A: While low-fat cream cheese can be used, it may result in a slightly less creamy texture compared to full-fat cream cheese. Adjust the amount of powdered sugar as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Q: Can I freeze the cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Q: Is there a keto-friendly version of this recipe? A: To make a keto-friendly version, substitute almond flour for wheat flour in the cake batter and use a powdered erythritol-based sweetener in place of granulated sugar in both the cake and frosting.

Indulge in the decadent delight of Cream Cheese Cake, a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. With its velvety texture, delicate sweetness, and creamy frosting, this cake is a true showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings and leave you with a smile. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a journey to dessert bliss with every forkful of this heavenly cake!