Traditional Cream Cheese Cake: Light, Fluffy, and Delicious
This Traditional Cream Cheese Cake combines the rich flavor of cream cheese with a fluffy, moist cake base that’s sure to please everyone. Topped with a smooth, sweet cream cheese icing, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and light sweetness. It’s ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to a cozy treat at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is both airy and indulgent, making it a hit for those who love creamy desserts without being overly sweet. The cream cheese in the batter adds subtle tanginess, while the icing provides a smooth, sweet finish that ties it all together.
Keywords: Traditional cream cheese cake, fluffy cream cheese dessert, easy cream cheese cake, light cream cheese cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions
Make the Cake
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. - Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and softened cream cheese together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. - Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. - Add Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Icing
- Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. - Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, and thin the icing with 1-2 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency. - Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top.
Customization Ideas
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a fresh flavor.
- Berry Compote: Serve with a side of berry compote or fresh strawberries for a tangy contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the frosting for added texture.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature ingredients ensures a smooth, well-mixed batter and frosting.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can cause the cake to be dense instead of fluffy, so mix until ingredients are just combined.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the icing.
Perfect Pairings
- Tea or Coffee: A hot beverage complements the creamy texture of this cake.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced fresh berries or a fruit salad for a lighter pairing.
Conclusion
This Traditional Cream Cheese Cake is an irresistible dessert with its fluffy texture, deliciously creamy flavor, and smooth, sweet icing. Simple to make and wonderfully versatile, it’s a classic cake you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
