There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic vanilla cake, and when it’s transformed into a stunning bundt cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s a match made in dessert heaven. This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is not only simple but also delivers a moist and flavorful cake that everyone will love. So, let’s dive into the details of how to create this delightful dessert!
Why This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Stands Out
This cake is a delightful blend of convenience and flavor. Using a box white cake mix and instant cheesecake pudding mix ensures that your cake will be light, fluffy, and packed with a rich vanilla flavor. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates this dessert, making it extra special. It’s a recipe that even novice bakers can master, yet it looks and tastes as though it came from a gourmet bakery. The combination of vanilla and almond extracts adds depth to the flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
The Essentials
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 ounces) – The base for our cake, providing a light texture.
- 1 box instant cheesecake pudding mix (3.4 ounces) – Adds moisture and richness.
- ½ cup 2% or whole milk – Ensures a moist cake.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake tender.
- 4 large eggs (slightly beaten) – Aids in providing structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract – For that classic vanilla flavor.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract – Adds a lovely layer of flavor.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature) – The star of our frosting.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature) – Helps create a creamy frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract – Enhances the frosting flavor.
Essential Tools for Success
- Bundt pan – A must-have for that beautiful shape.
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer – Makes mixing easy and efficient.
- Sifter – Ensures your powdered sugar is free of lumps.
- Spatula – For scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl.
Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake will bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease your bundt pan generously with cooking spray or butter, and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the box white cake mix and instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add in the milk, vegetable oil, slightly beaten eggs, vanilla paste, and almond extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Finally, blend in the vanilla paste or extract.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing.
How to Make It Lighter
- Use egg whites instead of whole eggs for a lighter texture.
- Replace vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.
- Opt for low-fat cream cheese in the frosting.
- Consider using a sugar substitute in both the cake and frosting if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Steer Clear of These
- Overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Skipping the sifting of powdered sugar can cause a gritty frosting.
- Using cold cream cheese, as it may not blend smoothly into the frosting.
- Not greasing the pan adequately, which can result in a cake that sticks.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap to maintain moisture. If you want to extend its life, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Your Top Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or lemon. Just remember to pair the frosting flavors accordingly for the best results.
What can I do if my cake sticks to the pan?
If your cake sticks, try running a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen it. You can also place the pan upside down on a plate and give it a gentle tap to help release it.
How can I decorate my bundt cake?
There are many fun ways to decorate your bundt cake! Consider adding fresh berries, sprinkles, or even a chocolate drizzle over the cream cheese frosting for a beautiful presentation.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to give it a quick mix before spreading it on the cake.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that combines simplicity and flavor. With its moist texture and rich frosting, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet moment, this cake is the perfect choice. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of this heavenly bundt cake!
Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake will bake evenly and rise perfectly.
- Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan. Grease your bundt pan generously with cooking spray or butter, and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Mix the Cake Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the box white cake mix and instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add in the milk, vegetable oil, slightly beaten eggs, vanilla paste, and almond extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Step 4: Bake the Cake. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting. While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Finally, blend in the vanilla paste or extract.
- Step 6: Frost the Cake. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use egg whites instead of whole eggs for a lighter texture.
- Replace vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.
- Opt for low-fat cream cheese in the frosting.
