Butter Cake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked butter cake filling your kitchen. This classic treat is rich, moist, and melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you're serving it as a simple dessert or dressing it up for a celebration, it's a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

I remember the first time I baked this butter cake—it was a rainy afternoon, and I wanted something warm and indulgent to go with my tea. What started as a spontaneous baking session quickly turned into a family tradition. Now, it's my go-to recipe whenever I need a foolproof cake that impresses with minimal effort.

Why You'll Love This Butter Cake

Get ready to fall in love with a cake that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This butter cake is the perfect balance of rich flavor and delicate crumb, making it ideal for any occasion.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a simple mixing method, you’ll have a beautiful cake in no time.

This recipe also delivers unbeatable texture. Thanks to a generous amount of butter, the cake turns out tender, moist, and perfectly soft, with a slight crispness on the edges.

Another great thing about this cake? It's versatile. Enjoy it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar, pair it with fresh fruit, or slather it with your favorite frosting—the possibilities are endless.

Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether served at birthdays, afternoon tea, or casual gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this butter cake lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating a rich and flavorful dessert.

Butter is the star of this recipe. I recommend using unsalted butter so you can control the salt content. For the best flavor, use high-quality butter with a rich, creamy taste.

Sugar provides the perfect sweetness and helps create a light, tender crumb. Granulated sugar works best here, giving the cake a classic, even texture.

Eggs add structure and moisture. Make sure they’re at room temperature before using, as this helps them blend seamlessly into the batter for a smooth consistency.

Flour is the backbone of the cake. I recommend all-purpose flour, which gives the cake just the right amount of structure without being too dense.

Milk keeps the cake moist and enhances its richness. Whole milk is the best choice, but you can also use buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor.

How To Make This Butter Cake

Making this delicious butter cake is a breeze, and the result is well worth it. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bake every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for extra assurance against sticking.

Next, cream the butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for creating an airy texture.

Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated and helps the batter stay smooth and stable.

Now, it's time to add the dry ingredients. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then add them gradually to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix just until everything is combined—overmixing can make the cake dense instead of tender.

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage Options

This butter cake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

If you plan to eat it within a couple of days, simply store it at room temperature in an airtight container. This will keep it moist and fresh for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a week, though be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Want to save some for later? Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container. Just thaw them at room temperature for an easy, ready-to-eat treat.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this butter cake is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few fun variations to try:

For a citrus twist, add lemon or orange zest to the batter. This brightens up the flavor and adds a refreshing note.

If you're a fan of vanilla, increase the vanilla extract to enhance the rich, sweet aroma of the cake.

Love chocolate? Add chocolate chips or a swirl of melted chocolate to the batter for a delightful variation.

For a nutty crunch, fold in chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to give the cake an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Want a dairy-free option? Substitute butter with a high-quality dairy-free alternative and use almond milk instead of regular milk.

No matter how you tweak it, this butter cake is a foolproof recipe that’s sure to delight. Try it today and see why it's a staple in so many kitchens!

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