Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sugar-Kissed Bakes

I have always been a fan of classic desserts, and this vanilla butter cake has a special place in my heart. It's incredibly moist and fluffy, making it the perfect canvas for any celebration. I love how the simple combination of butter, sugar, and vanilla can create such a rich flavor. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the delightful aroma fills my kitchen as it bakes. It's a recipe I turn to whenever I want to impress friends and family, and I can't wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:26:34.778Z

Baking this vanilla butter cake became a delightful journey that reminded me of family gatherings from my childhood. Every time I mix the ingredients, I am reminded of my grandmother’s joyful laughter as she taught me the art of baking. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is mesmerizing!

To ensure the cake rises perfectly, I always make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air for a light texture. I also love adding a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor, making the cake even more irresistible.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor that elevates any occasion
Perfectly buttery texture that is wonderfully moist
Versatile base for various frostings or toppings

Perfecting Your Butter Cake

The key to achieving a perfectly moist vanilla butter cake is in the creaming process. When you cream the butter and sugar, it's essential to do so until the mixture is light and fluffy—this can take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cake's rise and texture. If the mixture doesn't become fluffy, consider increasing your mixing time slightly. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment works beautifully here, allowing for consistent results.

Another crucial aspect is ensuring that your butter is at room temperature before you start. This allows it to blend more easily with the sugar and prevents any lumps, which can lead to an uneven texture in your finished cake. If you've forgotten to soften your butter, you can cut it into smaller pieces and microwave it for about 10 seconds at a time until it's just softened but not melted.

Ingredient Insights

Vanilla extract plays a vital role in this cake, elevating its flavor profile. If you want a stronger vanilla presence, consider using vanilla bean paste or even scraping the seeds from a vanilla bean pod instead of extract. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives your cake those iconic flecks that look beautiful when sliced. Be mindful of the quality of your vanilla; a pure extract will significantly impact the end result compared to artificial flavoring.

The all-purpose flour you choose can make a difference too. For a fluffier cake, you could opt for a cake flour substitute, which has a lower protein content, resulting in a tender crumb. If you're looking to make the cake a bit more indulgent, you can replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the vanilla.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful vanilla butter cake:

Cake Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your classic vanilla butter cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk until smooth.

Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, you can frost as desired or enjoy plain.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider adding lemon zest to the batter.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake doesn't rise as expected, it could be due to several factors. First, check the freshness of your baking powder; it should be active when mixed with liquid. You can test this by adding a teaspoon to a small amount of hot water; if it bubbles, it's still good. Additionally, ensure that you’re not overmixing the batter once the flour is added, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Sometimes, cakes can dom or crack in the center as they bake. To prevent this, you can try surrounding the cake pan with a damp kitchen towel during baking. This technique helps regulate the temperature of the cake edges, allowing for a more even rise and preventing the classic dome shape.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This vanilla butter cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. To prolong its freshness, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake after cooling; just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before bringing it to room temperature.

For serving, this cake is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with simple dustings of powdered sugar or fresh fruit like berries. If you want to take it up a notch, consider frosting it with a light vanilla buttercream or a cream cheese frosting for a tangy balance. You can also layer it with jam or lemon curd for an added flavor dimension that brightens the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to adjust for the saltiness.

→ How can I make this cake more flavorful?

You can add flavored extracts or citrus zest to the batter for a unique twist.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What frosting pairs well with vanilla butter cake?

Cream cheese frosting or buttercream frosting complements the flavors perfectly.