If you have ever dreamed of a dessert that feels like a warm hug and practically bakes itself, then you’re absolutely going to love The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe. This cake strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence, delivering a moist, tender crumb with a rich, buttery flavor that delights every taste bud. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a timeless classic that anyone can master, even if you don’t usually consider yourself a baker. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this effortlessly delicious treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet essential to achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and richness of The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s adding creaminess, sweetness, structure, or that irresistible buttery touch.
- Cream cheese (1 cup, softened): Adds a subtle tang and luscious creaminess that keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Enhances moisture and contributes to the cake’s light yet dense texture.
- Butter (4 sticks, softened): The star of richness, butter brings a deep, velvety flavor and helps with the cake’s beautiful crumb.
- Sugar (3 cups): Sweetness that balances all those creamy ingredients while creating the perfect golden crust.
- Large eggs (7): Eggs provide structure and richness, making the cake melt in your mouth with every bite.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A simple addition that brightens the entire cake with fragrant warmth.
- Cake flour (3 ½ cups): Gives the cake a delicate, tender crumb without heaviness, essential for that perfect texture.
How to Make The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This relatively low temperature ensures your cake bakes evenly and stays moist throughout. Grease and flour a 9-inch round or bundt pan meticulously to stop the cake from sticking and to guarantee a smooth release.
Step 2: Cream the Dairy and Butter Together
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, butter, and sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat this mixture until it becomes silky and well combined, about 7 minutes. This step is crucial because it aerates the batter, which will help give your cake a lovely rise and great texture.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs to the mixture one by one, beating well after each addition. This slow integration ensures every egg is smoothly blended into the batter, preventing curdling. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the cake with a subtle, comforting aroma.
Step 4: Gently Mix in the Cake Flour
Slowly add the cake flour to your creamy mixture. Mixing at a low speed is key here as it keeps the batter tender by not overworking the gluten. You want everything to come together just right without losing the luscious, soft texture that makes this cake so irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly for a uniform bake. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake turns a beautiful golden color, feels firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period makes it easier to handle without breaking. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into generous pieces and enjoy the fruits of your baking joy!
How to Serve The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe
Garnishes
While this cake shines on its own, adding a few garnishes can elevate the experience. Fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce bring extra flavor and visual appeal. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy counterpoint to the cake’s buttery richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a light, fruity salad or a hot cup of coffee or tea. The freshness of fruit balances the density and sweetness, creating a harmonious tasting experience that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Make serving the cake an event by layering slices with whipped cream and fresh fruits to create a trifle-inspired treat. Alternatively, turn it into mini parfaits or cake pops by crumbling and combining with frosting. Presentation is part of the fun, and this cake is versatile enough to accommodate your creative ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers—and why wouldn’t you?—store the cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moist texture and fresh flavor without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake easily to enjoy later. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in an airtight freezer container. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
Reheating
To bring your cake back to fresh-from-the-oven warmth, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or place them in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil for 10 minutes. This refreshes the cake’s softness and enhances its comforting aroma.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly denser. To mimic cake flour, you can substitute by removing 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour per cup and replacing it with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to keep the cake tender.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese and butter?
Absolutely. Softened ingredients blend more smoothly and create a uniform batter, which is key for the perfect crumb and consistency in The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe.
Can I reduce the sugar amount?
While you can reduce sugar slightly, keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also affects moisture and texture. Reducing it too much might alter the cake’s delicious buttery and tender qualities.
What type of pan works best for this cake?
A 9-inch round or bundt pan is ideal because it allows for even cooking and helps create a beautiful shape that’s easy to slice and serve.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The cake should have a golden color and feel firm to touch. The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a gorgeous, homemade cake from the oven with minimal fuss, and The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe delivers this joy with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a wonderful way to bring warmth and sweetness into your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself to a slice of comfort you won’t soon forget!
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The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This ultra-moist and creamy cake is incredibly easy to make, combining cream cheese, sour cream, and butter for a rich texture. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it yields a tender, golden cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 sticks (2 cups) butter, softened
- 7 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups sugar
- 3 ½ cups cake flour
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese, sour cream, butter, and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is well combined and smooth, about 7 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the cake flour to the mixture, mixing slowly until the flour is fully combined into the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cake should be golden and firm, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure all dairy ingredients are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not rush adding the eggs; beating them in slowly ensures a smooth batter.
- This cake keeps well for several days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For an extra touch, you can dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries before serving.
