Name: Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix ((15.25 ounces)); 1 box instant cheesecake pudding mix ((3.4 ounces)); 1 cup 2% or whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs (slightly beaten); 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract (for frosting)

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make, this Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is just the ticket. With the delightful combination of a fluffy, moist cake and a creamy, luscious frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or simply a treat for yourself, this cake will surely impress! Let’s dive into why this recipe is a favorite among home bakers.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake has won the hearts of many for several reasons. First, it uses a boxed white cake mix, making it accessible and quick to prepare. The addition of instant cheesecake pudding mix elevates the cake’s flavor and texture, resulting in a moist and tender crumb. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy sweetness that complements the vanilla cake perfectly. Not to mention, the beautiful Bundt shape makes this cake a stunning centerpiece for any table.

Ingredient Checklist

1 box white cake mix (15.25 ounces)
1 box instant cheesecake pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
1 cup 2% or whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs, slightly beaten
2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract for frosting

Tools of the Trade

Bundt pan – Essential for achieving that gorgeous cake shape.
Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients smoothly.
Electric mixer – Makes whipping the frosting a breeze.
Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key to perfect baking.
Cooling rack – Allows the cake to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.

Method: Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Generously grease your Bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. Dust it lightly with flour, tapping out the excess. This will help your cake release easily after baking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and the instant cheesecake pudding mix. Whisk them together until they are well blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the milk, vegetable oil, beaten eggs, vanilla paste, and almond extract. Stir until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Pour the Batter into the Bundt Pan

Carefully pour the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and continue to mix until smooth. Finally, add the vanilla paste and mix until combined.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the Bundt cake has cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation.

Better Choices & Swaps

For a lighter option, consider using a sugar-free cake mix and pudding mix.
Replace vegetable oil with applesauce for a healthier fat alternative.
Swap out almond extract for additional vanilla extract if you prefer a stronger vanilla flavor.
Opt for low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories in the frosting.

Don’t Do This

When making your Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, avoid the following common mistakes:

Do not skip greasing the Bundt pan; this can cause your cake to stick.
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Do not frost the cake while it’s still warm; the frosting will melt and slide off.
Do not forget to sift the powdered sugar for a smoother frosting texture.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and enjoy! If you like, you can microwave individual slices for a few seconds to enjoy a warm treat.

FAQ

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as lemon or chocolate, to create unique variations of this cake.

What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?

If you don’t have a Bundt pan, you can use a standard 9×13 inch baking dish. Just adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly and frost it closer to serving time for the best results.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

If you find the cream cheese frosting too sweet, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar. Add more cream cheese to balance the sweetness and maintain the desired consistency.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making an Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! This cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction with each bite. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. Happy baking!