Simple Cream Cheese Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven & Prep the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a standard loaf pan or a small bundt pan. You can also line with parchment for easier removal.

2️⃣ Cream the Butter & Cream Cheese:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

3️⃣ Add the Sugar & Eggs:
Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until light and airy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

5️⃣ Combine Wet & Dry:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the cake tender.

6️⃣ Bake Until Golden:
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Cake:

Room Temp Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
Want Extra Flavor? Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract for a fun twist.
Fancy It Up: Dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries for a pretty finish.
Make It a Glaze Cake: Drizzle with a simple vanilla or citrus glaze once cooled.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Cream Cheese Cake:

Rich & Moist: The cream cheese gives it a smooth, decadent texture.
Sweet but Subtle: Just the right amount of sugar for everyday enjoyment.
Versatile: Perfect as a snack cake, breakfast bite, or base for a layered dessert.
One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum payoff.

Nutritional Info (per slice, approx., for 10 servings):

Calories: ~280
Carbs: ~30g
Fat: ~15g
Sugar: ~18g
Protein: ~4g

FAQ About This Recipe:

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temp before serving.

Can I make this into cupcakes?
Yes! Bake in lined muffin tins for 18–22 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.

Flavor Twists to Try:

Berry Swirl: Gently swirl in ¼ cup of raspberry or blueberry jam before baking.
Spiced Version: Add ½ tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy touch.
Chocolate Chip Upgrade: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
Citrus Kick: Add orange zest and a citrus glaze for a sunny twist.

Perfect For:

Afternoon tea
Brunch tables
Cozy weekends
Gifting or potlucks
Anyone who loves simple, classic desserts