Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk

Highlighted under: Dessert Bliss

I absolutely love baking, and one of my favorite childhood memories is making this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake with my family. The aroma of vanilla wafting through the kitchen brings back warmth and joy, creating a sense of nostalgia that is hard to replicate. This cake has the perfect balance of moistness and richness, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or simply a weekend treat, this butter cake is my go-to recipe that never fails to impress. Let me share the magic of this delightful cake with you!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:09:34.894Z

Making this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is not just about the final product; it’s about the process that brings family together. I remember the first time I baked this cake, my siblings helped me sift the flour and we all took turns mixing the batter. The laughter and shared moments turned a simple baking task into a cherished memory. Using high-quality vanilla extract truly enhances the cake's flavor and makes all the difference.

Another tip I discovered over the years is to not overmix the ingredients after adding the flour. Gentle folding ensures a fluffy and tender crumb. When the cake rises in the oven and fills the kitchen with its sweet scent, I know my efforts were worth it. Each bite captures the essence of classic baking, and it never fails to bring a smile to my face!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich vanilla flavor that makes every bite delightful
Tender, buttery crumb that melts in your mouth
Versatile cake perfect for birthdays, weddings, or indulgent afternoons

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor for this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake. The unsalted butter not only provides a rich taste but also contributes to the cake's moistness. Using room temperature butter allows for better incorporation of air during creaming, resulting in a light, fluffy crumb. Granulated sugar adds sweetness while aiding in the cake's structure, making them essential companions in this baking process.

Eggs are another vital component; they help in binding the ingredients and add richness. When you beat the eggs into the mixture, you're not just incorporating moisture—you're also enhancing the cake’s structure and color. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, left to sit until gelatinous) which works well in creating a similar texture.

Mixing Tips for Success

When mixing the batter, be cautious of overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture. Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. This technique preserves air pockets and keeps the cake tender. It's normal for the batter to have a few lumps; they will dissolve during baking, giving you a soft, moist cake.

Alternatively, if you notice the batter feeling too thick, adding a little extra milk can help achieve the desired consistency. Aim for a pourable batter that falls easily from a spoon but isn't too runny. This balance helps in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth denseness characteristic of a butter cake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful cake:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Vanilla Butter Cake:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray.

Cream the butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix dry and wet ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with your favorite frosting.

Enjoy each slice of this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding lemon zest to the batter or a drizzle of chocolate glaze over the cooled cake. It elevates the flavor beautifully!

Cooling and Storage

After baking, it's important to allow the cake to cool properly to preserve its texture. Let it sit in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy as the steam needs to escape. Once completely cool, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to three days at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. To defrost, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours. This method helps in maintaining moisture and flavor, so your cake tastes just as delightful as when it was freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake can stand on its own, but it's versatile for various serving styles. For an elegant touch, serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with a splash of milk. Pair it with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert that’s both impressive and easy to prepare.

Another variation is to layer the cake with your favorite frosting. Cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a fruity buttercream can elevate the flavor profile and make it suitable for special occasions like birthdays or celebrations. Each serving can be uniquely garnished to suit your needs, making it a perfect base for creativity in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

While you can use oil, the cake will have a different texture and flavor. Butter provides a unique richness.

→ Is it possible to freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

→ What should I serve with the Vanilla Butter Cake?

It's delicious on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit makes it even more delightful!

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are slightly pulling away from the pan.