Chocolate Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Filling: A Swirl of Sweet Perfection

Chocolate cake delivers comfort, but chocolate Bundt cake with cream cheese filling brings a whole new level of joy. That rich swirl hiding inside surprises with every slice, and the mix of velvety chocolate and tangy cream cheese tastes like a dream. This cake doesn’t just sit pretty on a dessert table—it steals the spotlight.

Each bite feels balanced, not too sweet, not too heavy, just right. The shape makes it feel fancy without extra effort, and the filling turns it into something truly special. Guests always ask for seconds. Friends request the recipe. And somehow, there’s never a crumb left behind.

Serve it at family dinners, take it to potlucks, or enjoy it quietly with coffee on a slow afternoon. This Bundt cake doesn’t need frosting to impress. It does all the talking with its deep chocolate flavor and smooth cream cheese center. Get ready to bake your new favorite.

Ingredients Of Chocolate Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

This chocolate Bundt cake with cream cheese filling calls for simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect texture and taste. The chocolate base comes out moist and rich, while the cream cheese layer adds a smooth, slightly tangy surprise in every slice. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chocolate Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
¾ cup whole milk

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Use room temperature ingredients for the best results. The batter comes together smoothly, and the cream cheese filling stays soft and creamy during baking.

Required Tools and Equipment

Before baking this delicious chocolate Bundt cake with a cream cheese filling, gather the tools that make the process smooth and stress-free. Having the right equipment on hand helps you avoid kitchen mishaps and ensures your cake comes out with the perfect texture and shape.

Bundt Cake Pan – The star of the show. Choose a non-stick pan with a good shape to get clean edges and an impressive swirl.
Mixing Bowls – Use at least two: one for the cake batter and one for the cream cheese filling.
Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer – Creaming the filling and mixing the batter by hand takes extra effort. A mixer saves time and gives better results.
Spatula – Helps you fold ingredients without overmixing and scrape down the sides of bowls cleanly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are key for balance in both the cake and the filling.
Cooling Rack – Cools the cake evenly and prevents a soggy bottom.
Toothpick or Cake Tester – Checks doneness without damaging the cake’s structure.

With these tools ready, you’re all set to bake a cake that impresses every time.

Step By Step Guide To Make The Recipe

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Start with the cream cheese filling so it’s ready when the batter comes together. Use a medium mixing bowl and beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, an egg, and a splash of vanilla extract. Mix until the texture turns creamy and lump-free. Set this aside—it will go in the middle of the Bundt batter later. Keep it at room temperature so it stays easy to spread.

Preheat the Oven and Grease the Pan

Turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare your Bundt pan. Grease every curve and corner with butter or a non-stick spray, then dust it lightly with cocoa powder. This step helps the cake release cleanly and prevents white flour streaks on the chocolate cake.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to distribute everything evenly. This avoids clumps and helps the cake rise evenly during baking.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture turns fluffy and pale. This step builds the cake’s structure and keeps it light. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for the best texture. Once creamy, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add Wet Ingredients and Combine

Pour in vanilla extract, then slowly add buttermilk while continuing to mix. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Overmixing here can make the cake dense, so stop as soon as the batter looks smooth and chocolatey.

Layer the Batter and Filling

Spoon half the chocolate batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, add the cream cheese filling in a thick ring, keeping it centered without touching the edges. Spoon the remaining batter on top and smooth it out so it covers the filling completely.

Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the filling) comes out clean. The top should feel firm, and the cake will pull slightly away from the pan’s edges.

Cool and Remove from Pan

Let the cake rest in the pan for about 15–20 minutes. This cool-down time helps it firm up and reduces the chance of breaking. Gently turn the pan upside down onto a cooling rack. If you greased it well, the cake will release cleanly. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Slice and Serve

Once the cake cools, slice through and reveal that gorgeous cream cheese center. Serve it as-is or dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the filling fresh. This cake tastes even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions

A slice of this chocolate Bundt cake with cream cheese filling tastes amazing on its own, but a few simple touches can take your presentation to the next level. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Both ways highlight the rich chocolate and smooth cream cheese combo.

Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of cold and warm adds a comforting feel. You can also drizzle a little warm chocolate ganache or salted caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence.

For drinks, this cake pairs well with:

Freshly brewed coffee or espresso
A glass of cold milk
Hot chocolate for a double chocolate treat
Red wine or dessert wine for an elegant finish

Add some fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this chocolate Bundt cake keeps well. You can bake it the day before and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different filling, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or even ricotta for a lighter texture. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheese or add chocolate chips to the filling for extra richness.

3. How can I ensure the cake releases cleanly from the Bundt pan?
Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, and dust it with cocoa powder rather than flour. This helps the cake come out easily without sticking. Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes before removing it from the pan to prevent it from breaking.

4. Can I use a different type of pan?
You can use a regular round or square cake pan if you don’t have a Bundt pan, but the presentation won’t be quite as stunning. You may need to adjust the baking time, so check for doneness with a toothpick around the 35-minute mark.

5. Is there a way to make the cake less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the sugar in the batter slightly. You could also skip the powdered sugar dusting on top and opt for a lighter cream cheese filling with less sugar to balance the sweetness.

Conclusion

This chocolate Bundt cake with cream cheese filling strikes the perfect balance of indulgent flavor and smooth texture. With a rich chocolate exterior and a sweet, tangy surprise in the middle, it’s bound to become a crowd favorite. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, a dinner party, or just as a treat for yourself, the combination of chocolate and cream cheese will never disappoint. Easy to make and beautiful to serve, this cake will add a touch of elegance and sweetness to any occasion. Enjoy each slice!

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