Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Golden Treats

I absolutely love baking, and classic vanilla butter cake holds a special place in my heart. It’s my go-to treat for family gatherings, birthdays, and whenever I want a slice of nostalgia. This cake is wonderfully versatile, pairing beautifully with fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The buttery flavor combined with a hint of vanilla is simply irresistible. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Let’s dive into this delightful creation!

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:18:37.432Z

After trying countless recipes for vanilla butter cake, I finally settled on this version that delivers both texture and flavor. What makes this cake successful is the creaming method, which incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. I also like to let the ingredients come to room temperature before mixing, as this enhances the cake’s rise substantially.

One specific tip I’ve learned is to bake the cake in a preheated oven and to avoid opening the oven door in the first 20 minutes. This ensures that the cake doesn’t collapse and maintains its beautiful dome shape. The result? A moist, tender cake that everyone raves about!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes
Perfectly moist texture with a hint of buttery goodness
Versatile base for any frosting or topping you desire

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

In baking, each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. For this classic vanilla butter cake, unsalted butter is preferred as it allows you to control the salt content more precisely. The creaming of butter and sugar introduces air into the mixture, which aids in the cake's rising. It’s important to cream these ingredients until the mixture is light and fluffy, as this can take several minutes and significantly impacts the final density of the cake.

Eggs not only provide structure but also enrich the batter, contributing to the cake's moistness. When incorporating eggs, adding them one at a time ensures even distribution and prevents a curdled texture. The vanilla extract is a key flavor component; using high-quality extract can elevate the overall taste of the cake. If you run out of vanilla, a teaspoon of almond extract can be an interesting alternative, adding a nutty depth.

The balance between wet and dry ingredients also determines the cake's success. When mixing the flour, baking powder, and salt, sifting them together can prevent clumping and improve aeration. This is especially important for achieving that perfect rise. It's helpful to alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, as this keeps the batter from becoming overworked, which can develop gluten and lead to a tougher cake.

Tips for Perfecting Your Butter Cake

To ensure an evenly baked cake, always position your rack in the center of the oven. This allows for proper air circulation, promoting uniform baking. Keep an eye on the timer, starting a few minutes early. Ovens can vary, and your cake may be done in as little as 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges begin to pull away from the pan and the top springs back lightly when touched.

If the cake domes significantly in the center while baking, it may have been overmixed or baked at too high a temperature. Should you encounter this, a serrated knife can help level off the top once cooled. To enhance flavor and moisture, consider brushing the cooled cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water, which can be heated until dissolved. This is especially useful if you're preparing the cake in advance.

For a delightful variation, you can incorporate zest from a lemon or orange into the batter. Citrus zest adds a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the vanilla. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try folding in chocolate chips or nuts after combining all other wet and dry ingredients for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this classic treat:

Classic Vanilla 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
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.

Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Once cooled, this cake can be served plain or dressed up with your favorite frosting!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some almond extract or lemon zest to the batter.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This vanilla butter cake can easily be made a day in advance, making it ideal for events or gatherings. Once cooled completely, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature. If you need to store it for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Simply slice the cake, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy a slice of nostalgia anytime without compromising on its freshness.

When ready to serve, you can thaw individual slices in the refrigerator for a few hours or leave them out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For an even more delightful experience, consider warming the cake slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to replicate that fresh-baked warmth.

Serving Suggestions

This classic vanilla butter cake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving options. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance, but don’t hesitate to go further with toppings. Fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries provide a burst of color and a tart contrast to the sweet cake. A dollop of whipped cream can add richness and make it even more indulgent.

For chocolate lovers, a warm chocolate sauce drizzled over each slice can take your cake to the next level. Alternatively, you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Don’t shy away from customizing with different frostings, like cream cheese or buttercream, flavored with cocoa or fruit purees for a unique twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best taste.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute, but this might alter the texture slightly.