Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake

Are you craving a dessert that’s both cozy and indulgent? This Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake brings together the warm spices of cinnamon and the rich texture of cream cheese to create an irresistible treat. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat with coffee, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the secrets to making this delightful dessert.

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake

This cake combines the warmth of cinnamon with the luxurious texture of cream cheese. The result is a dessert that’s incredibly moist, fluffy, and packed with flavor. Each bite is rich, slightly tangy from the cream cheese, and beautifully spiced – a perfect treat for fall or any time of year.

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Ingredients Needed

For this Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake, you’ll need simple pantry staples along with a few extra ingredients to elevate its flavor:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• Optional: Extra cinnamon for dusting

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – avoid overmixing to keep the cake fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then gradually add milk until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. Drizzle over the cooled cake, and for an extra touch, sprinkle with cinnamon.

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Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Letting your butter, cream cheese, and eggs come to room temperature makes for a smoother, more even batter.
• Control the Spice Level: If you want more spice, add a pinch of ginger for added warmth, or dial down the cloves for a milder flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

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Pairing Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or even a spiced cider. For a festive touch, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

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Wrap-Up: Enjoy Your Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake

This Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake recipe is bound to become a favorite. Its easy-to-follow steps make it ideal for bakers of all skill levels, and the result is a deliciously moist, spiced cake with a dreamy cream cheese glaze. Perfect for any gathering, holiday, or cozy evening in, this cake will delight you and your loved ones with its aromatic flavor and light, fluffy texture.

Serving and Storage Tips for Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake

Serving Tips:

1. Warm It Up: For an extra comforting treat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds. The warm cake enhances the spices and makes the cream cheese glaze slightly gooey.
2. Add Toppings: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the cake’s spices. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a nice visual touch and enhances the flavor.
3. Serve With Beverages: Pair with hot coffee, chai tea, or even spiced cider for a cozy, complementary drink.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature (Short Term): This cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day if covered well to prevent it from drying out. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate (Longer Storage): To keep the cake fresh for up to 5 days, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Allow slices to come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best texture.
3. Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat. Add fresh glaze if desired after thawing.

Following these tips ensures your Cinnamon Spice Cream Cheese Cake stays delicious and moist, no matter how or when you enjoy it!

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day or two in advance. Simply bake the cake, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the cream cheese glaze just before serving for a fresh, creamy finish.

2. Can I substitute the buttermilk with something else?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute. Mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, and let it sit for 5 minutes. This mixture will mimic the tanginess of buttermilk and work well in the cake.

3. How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
To keep the cake moist, avoid overbaking and store it properly. Keep it in an airtight container, or cover it tightly with plastic wrap if left at room temperature for a short time. When refrigerated, let slices come to room temperature before serving for the softest texture.

4. Can I adjust the spice levels?
Absolutely! This recipe is flexible, so feel free to add more cinnamon if you love a stronger flavor, or dial down the nutmeg and cloves for a milder taste. You can also add a pinch of ginger for an extra kick of warmth if desired.

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