Classic Cream Cheese Cake – Soft, Fluffy & Irresistibly Creamy

Name: Classic Cream Cheese Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; 2 eggs; ¾ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup sour cream; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese; 4 oz cream cheese (for frosting); 4 tbsp butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp milk

This Classic Cream Cheese Cake is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. With a soft, fluffy texture and that signature creamy richness from cream cheese, it’s the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. The smooth, tangy frosting ties everything together beautifully, making each bite absolutely divine. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday dinner, or just because—you’ll love how simple and satisfying this cake is.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🎂 Moist, tender crumb with rich cream cheese flavor.
🧁 Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
💛 Perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
✨ Great for birthdays, potlucks, or Sunday desserts.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2 eggs, room temperature
¾ cup vegetable oil
1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened

For the Frosting

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (add more if needed for smoothness)

Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Prepare dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing for a tender cake.
Bake: Pour batter evenly into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Frost: Beat frosting ingredients until smooth and spread evenly over the cooled cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Chef Tips & Variations

Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture.
Add lemon zest to the frosting for a bright, tangy flavor.
Top with fresh berries or chopped nuts for extra texture and color.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

FAQs

Can I use light cream cheese?
Yes, but the cake will be slightly less rich and creamy.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake a day in advance, cover tightly, and frost it the next day for best flavor and texture.

Can I use a bundt pan?
Yes, bake in a well-greased bundt pan for about 40–45 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.