Irresistible Cream Cheese Cake Recipe (Ultra Moist & Easy!)

This Cream Cheese Cake is the ultimate indulgence—rich, soft, and topped with a silky-smooth cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. The combination of cream cheese and sour cream gives it an unbelievably moist texture, while the frosting adds just the right balance of sweetness and tang. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is bound to be a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly moist and tender thanks to the cream cheese and sour cream combo.
Easy to make – no complicated steps or specialty tools required.
Perfect for sharing – bakes beautifully in a 9×13-inch pan for easy slicing.
Versatile for any occasion – from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations.

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure and body for the cake.
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the sour cream to create extra lift.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness.
1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
1 cup sour cream – Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile.
8 oz cream cheese, softened – Gives the cake its creamy, rich texture.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened – The star ingredient for a smooth, tangy frosting.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and stability to the frosting.
2–3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the tanginess of the cream cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy release.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, and softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting to prevent melting.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve for maximum enjoyment.

Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Cake

Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
Bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix once you add the flour—this keeps the cake tender.
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile cake pairs beautifully with:

A sprinkle of fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
A drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
A cup of coffee or hot tea for the perfect afternoon treat.

Final Thoughts

The Irresistible Cream Cheese Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With its ultra-moist texture, rich flavor, and dreamy cream cheese frosting, this dessert is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy a quiet slice at home, it’s a cake worth making again and again.