This Cream Cheese Cake is a luscious, velvety dessert that strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness. Often described as the “queen of creamy cakes,” it features a soft, fluffy texture and a subtle tang that keeps each bite irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or indulging a weeknight craving, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Made from simple pantry staples like milk, butter, and cream cheese, the recipe is beginner-friendly but delivers a result that looks and tastes bakery-quality. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears almost as fast as it’s sliced.Cheese subscription box
What Makes Cream Cheese Cake Special?
Cream Cheese Cake is a cross between a sponge cake and a light cheesecake. It’s baked using a water bath to create a soft and custard-like center with no cracks or dryness. Unlike dense cheesecakes, this version is fluffy and moist, making it ideal for those who love rich desserts that aren’t overly sweet or heavy.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
250 ml (1 cup) whole milk
100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
3 large eggs
100 g (½ cup) cream cheese, room temperature
50 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
80 g (⅔ cup) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Fresh berries
Fruit compote or berry sauce
Shaved white chocolate
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
Grease and line a 7-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter with the milk. Once melted, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cream cheese until completely smooth. Gradually blend in the warm milk-butter mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.Cheese subscription box
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, whisking well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Lightly tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Place the pan into a larger baking dish filled with hot water to create a water bath. This helps the cake bake evenly and prevents cracking.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set.
Turn off the oven and leave the cake inside with the door slightly open for 10 more minutes to prevent sudden cooling.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before serving for best texture.
Methods Explained
Creaming Method
Combining cream cheese and warm milk with butter allows the fats to emulsify smoothly into the batter, resulting in a rich, uniform texture.Cheese subscription box
Water Bath Baking
Baking in a water bath ensures even, gentle heat and moisture, which prevents the cake from cracking and keeps it silky soft.
Gradual Mixing
Adding ingredients slowly and mixing carefully helps preserve the air in the batter and maintain a light, airy structure.
Serving Suggestions
Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish
Add a handful of fresh berries or a swirl of berry sauce for color and tang
Serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra treat
Final Thoughts
Cream Cheese Cake is the kind of dessert that turns simple ingredients into a showstopper. With its creamy crumb, delicate sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with fruit and cream, this cake is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.