👩‍🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. - Add the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the water, oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free. It will be a thin batter—don’t worry, that’s perfect! - Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Fold in the mini chocolate chips if using. - Assemble the Cake
Pour about ¾ of the chocolate batter into the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly across the top. Use a knife to gently swirl the filling through the batter—don’t overmix. Pour the remaining batter on top and lightly spread to cover. - Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake—this cake is meant to be moist! - Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. Serve plain, or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
đź’ˇ Tips & Variations
- No eggs in the cake batter? That’s right—this chocolate cake is naturally egg-free, thanks to the vinegar and baking soda combo that gives it lift and tenderness.
- Use parchment for easy cleanup if you’re planning to slice and serve this at a party or potluck.
- Make it ahead: This cake stores beautifully at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 3 days.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
This cake has everything going for it—moist chocolate, tangy cream cheese, and that irresistible swirl that makes every bite a little different. It feels indulgent, looks impressive, and yet comes together with basic pantry ingredients in under an hour.
It’s the kind of dessert you make when you want to wow a crowd with minimal effort. No frosting. No layering. Just one bowl for each mixture and a swirl of something special in the middle.
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear what you thought! Did you add extra chocolate chips, a pinch of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel on top? However you make it, it’s bound to become a keeper.
#ChocolateCreamCheeseCake #HiddenFillingSurprise #EasyBakingMagic #ComfortCakeCravings #DecadentDesserts #ChocolateLoversUnite #BakedBliss #SimpleSweetTreats
