This Cream Cheese Cake is the kind of dessert that instantly feels familiar, comforting, and indulgent all at once. Soft, rich, and incredibly moist, this cake delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a subtle tang from cream cheese that balances the sweetness beautifully. Every bite is plush and velvety, finished with a thick, creamy cream cheese frosting that makes this dessert unforgettable.
Perfect for easy dessert ideas, affordable baking projects, and simple family recipes, this Cream Cheese Cake fits seamlessly into weeknight baking, holidays, potlucks, and special celebrations. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want a dependable homemade dessert, this recipe delivers bakery-style results using budget-friendly ingredients and straightforward steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ultra-moist texture that stays soft for days
• Budget-friendly ingredients you likely already have
• Beginner-friendly baking with simple steps
• Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, and potlucks
• Rich cream cheese flavor without being overly dense
• Ideal for make-ahead desserts and meal prep recipes
Ingredient Breakdown
Cream Cheese – The star ingredient that adds richness, moisture, and a slightly tangy flavor that sets this cake apart from ordinary vanilla cakes.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake extra moist and tender, even after refrigeration, making it ideal for make-ahead desserts.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping create a soft, fluffy crumb.
Eggs – Provide structure and richness while keeping the cake light and cohesive.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth and depth.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cake while maintaining a tender bite.
Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises evenly for a soft, fluffy texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and subtle tang while creating a delicate crumb.
Butter (Frosting) – Adds richness and stability to the cream cheese frosting.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a smooth, spreadable finish.
Pro Tips
• Always use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Beat the cream cheese thoroughly before adding other ingredients to ensure a silky texture.
• Do not overmix once the flour is added—this keeps the cake tender.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Chill the frosted cake before slicing for clean, bakery-style pieces.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
• Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and slightly less frosting.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Lemon Cream Cheese Cake: Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the batter.
• Sheet Cake to Layer Cake: Bake in round pans and stack with frosting between layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cream Cheese Cake chilled or slightly softened at room temperature for the best texture. Pair it with fresh berries, a drizzle of fruit sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or milk and works well as a dessert centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, and casual gatherings. This cake also makes an excellent addition to dessert tables alongside cookies and bars.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
This cake is perfect for meal prep and make-ahead baking. Bake the cake up to two days in advance and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Frost just before serving or up to one day ahead. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to five days. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to two months—simply thaw overnight before frosting and serving.
Cultural and Comfort Food Inspiration
Cream cheese–based cakes have long been a staple in American comfort food baking, especially in Southern kitchens where rich, moist cakes are celebrated. This recipe blends the simplicity of classic sheet cakes with the luxurious texture of cream cheese desserts, making it a timeless favorite for traditional family meals and modern home baking alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is ideal for making ahead and actually tastes better after chilling.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce sugar slightly or use reduced-fat cream cheese with excellent results.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freeze the unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for best texture.
What substitutions work for dietary needs?
Use gluten-free flour blends or dairy-free alternatives if needed.
Cream Cheese Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in oil and sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cake cool completely before frosting.
- Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla and salt, then gradually mix in powdered sugar.
- Frost the cooled cake and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
