There’s something magical about the smell of a freshly baked butter cake filling your kitchen. Soft, rich, and with just the right amount of sweetness, this classic cake is perfect for any occasion
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Butter Glaze (Optional):
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or two 8-inch pans for layers).
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Alternate Mixing with Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If using the butter glaze, whisk all the ingredients together and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Slice and serve your homemade butter cake with a cup of tea, coffee, or a scoop of ice cream.
