Butter Cake

Why You’ll Love Butter Cake Recipe

This butter cake recipe is beloved for its simplicity and timeless flavor. It’s easy to make, requiring basic pantry staples, and produces a consistently soft and moist texture. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or paired with fresh fruit and cream, this cake never disappoints. Plus, it serves as an excellent base for more elaborate cakes and desserts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Large eggs

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Whole milk

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan.

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

3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one 8-inch round cake, serving approximately 8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30–40 minutes
Cooling time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Butter Cake: Add lemon zest and replace some milk with lemon juice for a citrus twist.

• Chocolate Butter Cake: Substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder to create a chocolate version.

• Almond Butter Cake: Add almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.

• Filled Butter Cake: Slice the cooled cake horizontally and add jam, cream, or frosting between layers.

Storage/Reheating

Store the butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

What makes a butter cake different from other cakes?

Butter cakes use creamed butter and sugar to create a tender, moist texture, unlike sponge cakes that rely on beaten eggs for lift.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe to balance flavors.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

What type of pan is best for butter cake?

An 8-inch round or square cake pan works well, but bundt pans or loaf pans can also be used with adjusted baking times.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just double the ingredients and use a larger pan or multiple pans, adjusting baking time accordingly.

Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?

Sifting helps remove lumps and aerates the flour, contributing to a lighter texture, but it’s not mandatory.

Can I add frosting or glaze?

Absolutely! Butter cake pairs well with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze.

What is the best way to soften butter for this recipe?

Leave butter out at room temperature for about 30–60 minutes, or soften gently in the microwave using short bursts on low power.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.

Conclusion

Butter cake is a timeless dessert that offers rich flavor and a tender crumb with simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you enjoy it plain or dress it up with your favorite toppings, this cake is sure to please any palate and occasion. With versatile variations and straightforward storage tips, it’s a great recipe to have in your baking repertoire.

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A classic buttery, moist, and tender butter cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, this butter cake delivers a rich flavor and soft crumb that melts in your mouth. Ideal as a dessert or teatime treat.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

• Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
• You can add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrus twist.
• This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or whipped cream.