Philly Fluff Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 5 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup butter-flavored vegetable shortening
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, or as needed

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a tube or Bundt pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the butter, cream cheese, and shortening using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually beat the flour mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
5. Beat in the first egg, followed by 1/2 cup sugar. Mix until fully incorporated.
6. Repeat the process with the second egg and the remaining sugar, then beat in the final egg.
7. Stir in the vanilla extract.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 38 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
11. Remove the cake from the pan and cool completely on the rack.
12. Once the cake has cooled, sift powdered sugar evenly over the entire surface for a light coating.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	366
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	106mg
Sodium	322mg
Total Carbohydrate	42g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	29g
Protein	5g
Vitamin C	0mg
Calcium	66mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	69mg

Servings Per Recipe: 8

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information may not be available for all ingredients. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary needs.

The Story Behind Philly Fluff Cake

Philly Fluff Cake is a beloved dessert with roots on the East Coast of the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania. Emerging in the mid-20th century, it gained popularity as a lighter alternative to traditional pound cakes. The cakes defining feature is its airy texture, achieved by incorporating cream cheese into the batter along with a combination of butter and shortening. This method produces a moist, tender crumb that sets it apart from heavier desserts, making it a favorite for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While the original recipe hails from Philadelphia, variations have emerged in neighboring states. In some areas, bakers substitute part of the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or add citrus zest to brighten the taste. Southern adaptations sometimes include a drizzle of simple syrup or a light glaze, enhancing sweetness without compromising the cakes fluffiness. Despite these tweaks, the core concepta soft, creamy cake dusted with powdered sugarremains consistent across regions.

Distinguishing Philly Fluff Cake from Similar Desserts

Philly Fluff Cake is often compared to traditional pound cakes or sponge cakes, but several features distinguish it. Unlike classic pound cake, which relies heavily on butter and eggs for density, the addition of cream cheese in Philly Fluff Cake lightens the texture significantly. It also differs from sponge cakes, which depend on whipped eggs for lift, as this cake combines both chemical leavening and creamed fats to achieve its signature rise and tenderness.

Typical Serving Occasions

Philly Fluff Cake is versatile in presentation and is commonly served at afternoon teas, family brunches, and holiday dinners. Its light texture makes it suitable for pairing with coffee or tea, and it is often accompanied by fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar. Bundt pans or tube pans are traditionally used, giving the cake an elegant shape that is ideal for festive occasions.

Interesting Facts

• The term Fluff refers not only to the cakes soft texture but also to its airy appearance when baked.
• Although cream cheese is a staple ingredient, the cake does not have a tangy flavor like cheesecake; it is subtly rich and sweet.
• Philly Fluff Cake is sometimes called a cake for every season due to its adaptabilityadding fruit, nuts, or extracts can create endless variations.
• Despite its simplicity, this cake has been featured in regional baking contests and local cookbooks, celebrating its status as an iconic East Coast dessert.
• The cakes lightness makes it a popular choice for those who want a traditional treat without the heaviness of butter-laden cakes.

FAQ about Philly Fluff Cake Recipe

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