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
Scale
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.