If you’re craving a warm slice of nostalgia, this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless classic that fills your kitchen with irresistible buttery aroma, creating a tender, moist cake with a perfectly golden crust. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake’s simple ingredients and straightforward method make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or cozy afternoons with tea. The magic of this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe lies in its rich, buttery flavor and that velvety crumb that melts in your mouth every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for pantry staples that come together to produce an unforgettable taste and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role to get that signature moist crumb and golden color that defines the Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup softened): Creamed to create a fluffy base and enrich the cake’s buttery taste.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- Large eggs (4): Provide structure and moisture, binding the cake ingredients beautifully.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Elevates the flavor with a warm, aromatic hint.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The sturdy backbone that supports the cake’s structure.
- Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Ensures a perfect rise for a light, airy texture.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and helps the batter come together with a smooth consistency.
How to Make Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and a light dusting of flour. This step is key to ensure your cake releases easily after baking, preserving its beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process traps air inside, giving your Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe its famously tender crumb and lift.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain the batter’s smooth texture. Stir in the vanilla extract last, which infuses the cake with its signature aromatic warmth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate large bowl. This ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed, which helps your cake rise evenly and taste perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until everything is combined. This gentle folding helps prevent overmixing and keeps your cake tender, the hallmark of the Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before serving.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This butter cake is lovely on its own, but you can elevate it with simple touches like a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream to add a pop of freshness and creaminess. For an indulgent twist, drizzle a homemade vanilla glaze on top while the cake is still warm.
Side Dishes
Pair your Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe with a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. It also goes wonderfully alongside bowls of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert that feels decadent yet comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, slice the cake into petite squares and serve on a vintage china plate for a nostalgic vibe. You can also layer it with raspberry jam and whipped cream for a simple, homemade layer cake that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for baking ahead for events or family gatherings.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cake keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To warm up slices of your butter cake, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave briefly for 15 to 20 seconds. This refreshes the moist crumb and brings back that fresh-baked flavor we all love.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter with margarine in this recipe?
While margarine can be used in a pinch, the rich flavor and texture of butter are what truly make this recipe shine. Using unsalted butter is recommended for the best classic taste and moist crumb in your Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe.
Is it necessary to use whole milk?
Whole milk provides the right amount of fat, contributing to the moistness and tenderness of the cake. You can use 2% milk if needed, but skim milk might result in a drier cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To adapt this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe for a gluten-free diet, substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to mimic the cake’s texture.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your cake is perfectly baked.
Can this cake be frosted?
Absolutely! This cake is a fantastic canvas for your favorite frostings like buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even simple vanilla glaze. Its sturdy yet tender crumb holds up well, making it versatile for layered cakes or single-layer treats.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe truly brings back the charm of classic baking with every bite. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method deliver a cake bursting with buttery richness and tender crumb that never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, dive into this recipe and enjoy a slice of timeless comfort that feels like a warm hug from the past.
Print
Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is a classic American dessert featuring a tender, moist crumb with a rich buttery flavor. Perfectly balanced with vanilla and baked to golden perfection, it’s ideal for any occasion and can be enjoyed plain or with whipped cream, berries, or frosting.
Ingredients
Butter Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This helps to incorporate air, giving the cake a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully combine. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to ensure a tender cake crumb.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the smooth batter evenly into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or frosting.
Notes
- This classic butter cake is delicious on its own or topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, or your favorite frosting.
- For a richer flavor, brush the top with a simple vanilla glaze while still warm.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the best texture.
