Butter Cake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked Butter Cake filling your kitchen. With its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb, this classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a slice with your afternoon tea.

this Recipe

I remember my grandmother making this cake on Sundays, the scent of vanilla and melted butter lingering in the air. It was always a highlight of our family gatherings, and now, I’m excited to share this timeless recipe with you.

Why You'll Love This Butter Cake

This Butter Cake is the perfect combination of simple ingredients and exquisite taste. If you're a fan of soft, moist cakes with a rich buttery flavor, you're in for a treat.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious cake in no time.

The texture is simply divine. Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and eggs, creating a light yet decadent crumb.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with fresh fruit and whipped cream for an elegant touch.

Best of all, this cake keeps well and tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Butter Cake lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

Butter is the star of this cake. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and ensure it's at room temperature for a smooth batter.

Sugar sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb. Granulated sugar works best, but you can experiment with superfine sugar for an even softer texture.

Eggs provide structure and richness. Be sure to use large eggs at room temperature to ensure proper emulsification.

Flour gives the cake its structure. All-purpose flour works beautifully, but cake flour can be used for an even lighter texture.

Milk and Vanilla Extract add moisture and flavor. Whole milk is best for richness, while pure vanilla extract enhances the cake’s warm, sweet aroma.

A stand mixer or a hand mixer will make the mixing process much easier, ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter.

How To Make This Butter Cake

Baking a Butter Cake is as easy as it is rewarding. Follow these steps for a foolproof cake every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, creating a soft texture. Beat for about 3-5 minutes, scraping the sides as needed.

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth, even batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, aromatic flavor.

Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add it to the batter, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture to maintain a consistent texture.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this Butter Cake stores beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

You can also freeze Butter Cake for up to three months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Butter Cake is its adaptability. Here are some ways to switch things up.

For a lemon butter cake, add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.

If you're a fan of chocolate, mix in a handful of chocolate chips or swirl in some melted chocolate before baking.

For a nutty variation, fold in chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch and depth of flavor.

If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap out the butter for vegan butter and use almond milk instead of dairy milk.

Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give your Butter Cake a warm, spiced twist perfect for the holidays.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Butter Cake is sure to be a delightful treat. Happy baking!

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