Cream Cheese Cake

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### **Instructions**

1. **Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **325°F (163°C)**. Grease and flour a **9-inch bundt pan** or a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

2. **Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese**
In a large mixing bowl, beat the **softened butter and cream cheese** together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).

3. **Add Sugar and Eggs**
Gradually add the **sugar**, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the **eggs one at a time**, beating well after each addition. Stir in the **vanilla extract**.

4. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour, baking powder, and salt**.

5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the **milk**. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, or the cake may become dense.

6. **Bake the Cake**
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for **60-70 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. **Cool and Serve**
Let the cake cool in the pan for **10 minutes**, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with **powdered sugar** or top with fresh berries for a beautiful finish.

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### **Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Cake**

– **Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature butter, cream cheese, and eggs ensures a smooth batter with even mixing.
– **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
– **Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese:** For the best texture and flavor, stick with full-fat cream cheese instead of reduced-fat versions.
– **Storage:** This cake stays fresh for up to **3 days at room temperature**, or you can refrigerate it for **up to a week** in an airtight container.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– Enjoy a **slice with coffee or tea** for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
– Serve with a dollop of **whipped cream** and **fresh berries** for a light, elegant dessert.
– Drizzle with **chocolate sauce, caramel, or honey** for an extra indulgent treat.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

This Cream Cheese Cake is the ultimate combination of **simplicity and decadence**. The butter and cream cheese create a smooth, rich texture, while the vanilla and sugar add a warm sweetness that complements the tangy notes of cream cheese. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations.

Give this easy-to-make cake a try, and you’ll have a **go-to dessert** that’s guaranteed to impress every time! 🍰✨