Cheesecake-Filled Vanilla Cake

Description:

This decadent Cheesecake-Filled Vanilla Cake combines the best of two desserts: a moist, fluffy vanilla cake with a creamy cheesecake center. Perfect for celebrations or when you want an extra-special treat, this cake is sure to impress!

Origin:

Inspired by layered and hybrid desserts, this cake is a modern take on combining the richness of cheesecake with the classic appeal of vanilla cake.

Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting (Cream Cheese Frosting):

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients:

• Fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries or raspberries) for garnish
• White chocolate shavings or sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
   • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
   • Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
   • Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool completely and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
2. Make the Vanilla Cake:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
   • Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   • Divide batter between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
3. Make the Frosting:
   • Beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one vanilla cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting.
   • Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
   • Add the second vanilla cake layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
5. Decorate:
   • Garnish with fresh fruit, white chocolate shavings, or sprinkles as desired.

Tips for Success:

• Chill the cheesecake layer well for easier handling.
• Use a serrated knife to trim cake layers if needed for even stacking.
• Apply a crumb coat of frosting and chill before the final frosting layer for a cleaner finish.

Recommendations:

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

Nutrition (per slice, approximate for 12 slices):

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 45g
• Sodium: 300mg

Enjoy this indulgent Cheesecake-Filled Vanilla Cake, the perfect fusion of creamy and fluffy textures!