Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Sugar & Whisk

I absolutely adore baking, and there's nothing quite like the aroma of a vanilla butter cake filling the kitchen. This classic recipe holds a special place in my heart because it's simple yet elegant — perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a moist, buttery cake that everyone will love. I often pair this cake with fresh berries or a swirl of whipped cream, making it a delightful treat for family gatherings or casual afternoon tea. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.366Z

With my love for baking, I decided to experiment with different vanilla butter cake recipes until I found this one that truly stands out. The secret to its rich flavor lies in using high-quality vanilla extract and butter, which gives the cake a luxurious taste and texture. I also found that mixing the ingredients just enough to achieve a smooth batter without overworking it keeps the cake perfectly light and fluffy.

This recipe has become my go-to for celebrations, and I often receive requests for it at birthdays and family events. The best part is how versatile it is; you can dress it up with a glaze or serve it plain. The soft crumb and rich buttery flavor make each slice a delightful experience that I love to share with friends and loved ones.

Reasons You'll Love This Cake
Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Simple ingredients that are easy to find
Perfectly moist texture that stays fresh for days

Understanding Ingredients

The beauty of this classic vanilla butter cake lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Unsalted butter is critical for achieving that rich flavor and tender crumb, allowing you to control the salt level. Always make sure your butter is softened to room temperature; this creates the perfect emulsion with sugar when creaming. Additionally, using fresh eggs not only helps with leavening but also enhances the overall flavor of your cake.

Vanilla extract is another pivotal ingredient that elevates this cake, imparting a warm, sweet aroma. Opt for pure vanilla extract as opposed to imitation for the best results. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using vanilla bean paste for a more intense flavor and delightful speckles throughout the cake. The balance of these ingredients contributes significantly to the cake's moistness and texture.

Baking Techniques

Proper mixing techniques are essential for a light and airy butter cake. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy texture that should appear pale in color and have a creamy consistency. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is crucial for leavening. If you skip this step or don't mix it adequately, your cake may turn out dense and heavy.

Pay attention to the baking process as well. Baking at the right temperature, 350°F (175°C), is key to ensuring even cooking. I recommend using an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s accuracy. Avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily, as this can cause a drop in temperature that may affect how the cake rises. Look for a golden top and baked edges, and perform the toothpick test before removing it from the oven.

Ingredients

Classic Vanilla Butter Cake Ingredients

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

Gather all the ingredients and allow the butter and eggs to come to room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and stir until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 30-40 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, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously baked Vanilla Butter Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle the cooled cake with a simple vanilla glaze or serve it with fresh fruit.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This vanilla butter cake can be made a day in advance, making it a fantastic option for gatherings. Once baked and cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature to retain moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Just slice it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container. The cake will maintain its quality for up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy slices from the freezer, simply let the cake thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you want to elevate the flavor, you can also brush the cake with a sugar syrup infused with vanilla or citrus zest before serving to add an extra layer of moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This vanilla butter cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, not only add color but also provide a tart contrast to the rich, buttery flavor of the cake. For a festive touch, try serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a more decadent experience.

Additionally, you can customize the cake by adding different flavor elements. Consider incorporating a citrus zest like lemon or orange into the batter for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, create a layered cake by slicing the cooled cake horizontally and filling it with your favorite preserves or flavored creams. Each variation can bring new life to this classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to maintain flavor balance.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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 this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of milk?

You can substitute milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice without altering the flavor significantly.