If you’ve ever wanted to bake something spectacularly simple that still wows every time, then look no further. The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe is exactly what you need for those moments when you want a homemade treat that feels special without hours of fuss. This luscious cake combines creamy textures with a tender crumb, all crafted with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Perfect for celebrations or whenever a sweet craving strikes, this recipe delivers flawless results that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe. From the tangy cream cheese to the richness of butter, every item adds depth and warmth to the final cake.
- Cream cheese, 1 cup, softened: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that makes the cake irresistibly creamy.
- Sour cream, 1 cup: Enhances the tenderness and lends a slightly tangy flavor that brightens the batter.
- Butter, 4 sticks (2 cups), softened: Brings richness and helps create a soft crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Sugar, 3 cups: Sweetens the cake while helping to create that delicate, golden crust.
- Large eggs, 7: Provide structure and richness, binding the ingredients perfectly together.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Infuses the cake with warm, aromatic notes that elevate every bite.
- Cake flour, 3 ½ cups: Keeps the texture light and fluffy, avoiding heaviness or toughness.
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). While it warms up, generously grease and flour a 9-inch round or bundt pan. This simple prep step ensures your cake will release beautifully once baked, preserving its lovely shape and texture.
Step 2: Cream the Dairy and Butter
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, softened butter, and sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat these together until smooth and fluffy, which usually takes about 7 minutes. This creaming process lays the foundation for a velvety batter that bakes into perfection.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This step ensures your cake’s structure remains stable and moist. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely fragrance that will fill your kitchen and your cake.
Step 4: Add the Cake Flour
Gradually sift in the cake flour, mixing slowly and gently to avoid overworking the batter. This careful folding keeps the texture light and tender without sacrificing volume.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Place it in the oven and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes. You’ll know your cake is ready when it has a beautiful golden color, feels firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set its structure. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely so every slice cuts perfectly. Now you can slice and savor your masterpiece!
How to Serve The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can beautifully complement this cake, enhancing its creamy texture without overwhelming it. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream add a fresh contrast and pop of color that make serving extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat, or serve alongside a bowl of fruit salad to balance its richness. Ice cream or custard also works wonders if you want to elevate it into a full dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, top the cake with edible flowers or a light glaze made from citrus juice and powdered sugar. You could also layer slices between sheets of parchment for an elegant picnic presentation that keeps slices neat and easy to serve.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and softness. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy schedules.
Freezing
You can freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic and foil to preserve freshness for up to 2 months. When you want a quick dessert fix, just thaw a slice overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To revive a slice, warm it in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven (around 250°F) for 10 minutes. This warming brings back that just-baked softness and intensifies the delicate flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt in The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a replacement for sour cream, though it might make the cake slightly tangier. Use the same quantity to keep the texture balanced.
What pan works best for this cake?
The recipe calls for a 9-inch round or bundt pan, which helps the cake bake evenly and develop a lovely shape. Using a pan that’s too small or too large can affect baking time and texture.
Is it necessary to use cake flour?
Cake flour keeps the cake light and tender, but if you don’t have it, you can use all-purpose flour mixed with a bit of cornstarch as a substitute.
How long can I store The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe before it goes stale?
Stored properly at room temperature, this cake stays fresh for around 3 to 4 days. Refrigeration can extend its life but may dry it out slightly.
Can I add flavors like lemon or almond extract?
Absolutely! Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or swapping vanilla for almond extract lends a lovely twist and personalizes the cake to your taste.
Final Thoughts
There is something uniquely satisfying about a homemade cake that’s both simple to make and absolutely delicious, and that’s exactly what you get with The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe. Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re searching for a new go-to favorite, this recipe delivers the perfect combination of ease and elegance. So grab your mixer, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a cake that promises smiles with every slice!
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The Easiest Cake to Make Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour 45 minutes resting time, total active prep 15 minutes)
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This super easy cake recipe combines cream cheese, sour cream, and butter with a tender cake flour base for a rich and moist dessert. The cake is baked slowly at a low temperature, resulting in a delicate texture and golden crust 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, ensuring easy removal after baking.
- Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, butter, and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until smooth and well combined, about 7 minutes, which helps create a light batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully combine them into the mixture. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix in Flour: Gradually add the cake flour to the wet mixture, mixing slowly and carefully until the flour is thoroughly blended into the batter, avoiding overmixing.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cake should become golden and firm. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving to enhance texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using cake flour results in a lighter, more tender crumb compared to all-purpose flour.
- Make sure all dairy ingredients are softened to room temperature to facilitate easier mixing.
- Low and slow baking at 300°F helps the cake cook evenly without drying out.
- The cake is rich, so serving smaller slices can balance indulgence and portion control.
- For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract along with vanilla.
