Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
Experience the delightful indulgence of a Cream Cheese Bundt Cake that’s rich, moist, and simply unforgettable. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or as a treat for yourself, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe, how to make it, and the simple steps to create this masterpiece.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cream Cheese Bundt Cake stands out due to its smooth texture and the tangy richness of the cream cheese. The balanced sweetness, combined with the optional almond extract, elevates the flavor, making every bite a delightful experience. Additionally, this recipe is straightforward, even for novice bakers. It’s versatile too; serve it as is or add a simple glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
- Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this helps maintain the cake’s soft and tender crumb.
- Use a quality Bundt pan and thoroughly grease it to ensure your cake comes out cleanly.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Experiment with flavors by adding lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist!
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Cream Cheese Bundt Cake:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-12 cup Bundt pan to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Optional Finishing Touches
Once your cake has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle a glaze over the top. A simple glaze can be made by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
FAQ
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese and butter?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat alternatives, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly compared to using full-fat versions.
Q: Can I add fruit to the batter?
A: Absolutely! Chopped fruits like strawberries or blueberries can enhance the flavor and add moisture to the cake.
Q: How do I store leftover cake?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q: Why is my cake dense?
A: Overmixing the batter or not allowing the ingredients to come to room temperature can lead to a denser texture.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will keep well for about 3 months.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Bundt Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! With a combination of simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create a charming cake that impresses at any gathering. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with a glaze, it’s an indulgence worth every bite. Try this recipe today and bring joy to your kitchen and your table!