Cream Cheese Cake is the kind of dessert that instantly feels like home. Every bite is rich, tender, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, thanks to real cream cheese blended right into the batter. This cake bakes up unbelievably moist, with a delicate crumb that practically melts on your tongue, then gets topped with a thick, velvety cream cheese frosting that seals the deal.
If you’re searching for easy dessert recipes that feel indulgent but are simple enough for everyday baking, this cake is the answer. It’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or just when you want a comforting homemade treat without complicated steps. As far as affordable desserts and simple family recipes go, this Cream Cheese Cake delivers bakery-quality results using budget-friendly pantry staples.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS EASY CREAM CHEESE CAKE
- Quick and beginner-friendly with simple steps
- Budget-friendly dessert using everyday ingredients
- Ultra-moist texture that stays soft for days
- Family-approved flavor everyone loves
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and holidays
- A classic comfort food dessert with timeless appeal
INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN FOR THE PERFECT CREAM CHEESE CAKE
Cream Cheese – The star ingredient that adds tangy flavor and creamy texture. Using softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free batter and creates that signature cheesecake-like richness.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender. Oil-based cakes stay softer longer than butter-based cakes, making this ideal for make-ahead desserts.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure while helping the cake bake evenly with a light crumb.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness. Room-temperature eggs mix more smoothly and create a uniform batter.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth to both the cake and frosting.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cake its structure while still keeping it soft and fluffy.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise evenly for a light, airy texture.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a subtle tang while helping create a tender crumb. It’s one of the best ingredients for soft cakes.
CREAM CHEESE FROSTING INGREDIENTS
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps create a smooth, spreadable frosting.
Cream Cheese – Gives the frosting its classic tangy, creamy flavor.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting while creating a thick, fluffy consistency.
PRO BAKING TIPS FOR THE BEST RESULTS
- Always use room-temperature ingredients for smooth mixing
- Beat the cream cheese thoroughly before adding other ingredients
- Do not overmix once flour is added to avoid a dense cake
- Chill the frosted cake before slicing for cleaner cuts
- Store covered to keep the cake moist and fresh
INGREDIENT SWAPS AND RECIPE VARIATIONS
- Low-Sugar Option: Reduce sugar slightly and use a sugar substitute suitable for baking
- Lemon Cream Cheese Cake: Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- Chocolate Swirl Cake: Swirl melted chocolate into the batter before baking
- Cupcake Version: Bake in lined muffin tins for individual servings
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MAXIMUM ENJOYMENT
Serve this cake chilled for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a cup of coffee, or tea. For gatherings, slice into small squares for easy serving, or dress it up with fruit compote for special occasions.
MAKE-AHEAD AND STORAGE TIPS
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture
- Frost just before serving if making ahead for events
A CLASSIC COMFORT DESSERT WITH TIMELESS APPEAL
Cream Cheese Cake has long been a favorite in American home baking. It combines the richness of cheesecake with the simplicity of a classic sheet cake, making it a staple at family gatherings, church potlucks, and holiday tables. Its enduring popularity comes from its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and ease.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is even better when made a day in advance and chilled.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for best freshness.
Can I make it healthier?
You can reduce sugar slightly or use lighter dairy alternatives, though texture may change.
Can I freeze Cream Cheese Cake?
Yes, freeze unfrosted for best results.
Why is my cake dense?
Overmixing or cold ingredients can cause a heavier texture.
Cream Cheese Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in vegetable oil and granulated sugar until fully combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Stir in buttermilk until the batter is smooth, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla and salt, then gradually beat in powdered sugar until thick and spreadable.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.
