Indulge in the delightful fusion of cake batter and cheesecake with this incredibly easy yet mouth-watering recipe. This Cake Batter Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with the playful, colorful fun of a birthday cake, making it a perfect dessert for celebrations or simply when you're in the mood for something special. Let's dive into how you can bring this show-stopping treat to life in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1 1⁄2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1⁄4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1⁄2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- Cheesecake:
- 4 packages (8 oz. each) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup of cake mix (dry mix)
- 1⁄2 cup of rainbow sprinkles (plus additional for garnish)
- 1⁄2 cup of heavy cream
- Frosting:
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- 1⁄4 cup of milk
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1⁄4 cup of cake mix (dry mix)
- Food coloring (optional)
Preparation
Crust Preparation:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring a firm and even layer.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes, then allow it to cool while preparing the cheesecake filling.
Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Add in the flour, eggs (one at a time), vanilla extract, and dry cake mix, blending well after each addition.
- Incorporate the heavy cream, then fold in the sprinkles.
- Pour the batter over the prepared crust, smoothing the top.
- Bake in a water bath at 325°F (163°C) for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Frosting and Finishing:
- While the cheesecake cools, prepare the frosting by beating butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and cake mix.
- Beat until you achieve a light, fluffy consistency. If desired, divide and color the frosting with food coloring.
- Once the cheesecake is completely cool and has set (preferably overnight in the fridge), release it from the springform pan, spread or pipe the frosting on top, and decorate with additional sprinkles.
Tips for Success
- Water Bath: Using a water bath ensures the cheesecake bakes evenly and prevents cracking.
- Cake Mix: Using dry cake mix in the filling and frosting gives that unique cake batter flavor without altering the texture too much.
- Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly to room temperature, then refrigerate to set. This helps in preventing cracks and achieving the perfect cheesecake texture.
💡 Note: Always bring cream cheese to room temperature for a smoother batter.
Serving and Storage
- Serve: Best served chilled. Slice using a sharp, warm knife for clean cuts.
- Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for up to a month. Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
With this recipe, you've not just made a dessert; you've created a memory. Whether it's for a birthday, an anniversary, or a simple get-together with friends, this Cake Batter Cheesecake is sure to impress with its blend of familiar flavors and unique twist. Enjoy the process, the fun of decorating, and most importantly, the smiles as everyone takes a bite into this delightful fusion of cake and cheesecake.
Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making my own?
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Absolutely! Using a pre-made crust will save time, but keep in mind that homemade crusts often have a fresher taste and a better texture.
What can I use if I don’t have cake mix?
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You can create a mock cake batter flavor by adding a mix of flour, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract. However, the result might not be as intense as using actual cake mix.
How do I know if my cheesecake is done?
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The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. A toothpick or knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean but with a slight wobble.
