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: 8 servings
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 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Crumbs

I absolutely love baking, and this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is one of my favorite recipes to make. The rich aroma of vanilla wafts through the kitchen, filling the air with warmth and comfort. This cake is perfect for so many occasions, from birthday parties to afternoon tea. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the vanilla flavor to shine, while the buttery texture creates a delightful experience with every bite. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed with frosting, this cake is sure to bring joy to your gatherings.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:01:35.696Z

When I first experimented with this vanilla butter cake, I couldn't believe how simple it was yet how delicious the results were. The key lies in creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which creates an airy texture that perfectly supports the hints of vanilla. I remember making it for my friend's birthday, and everyone raved about how moist and flavorful it turned out.

One of my favorite tips is to use high-quality vanilla extract—a little goes a long way. This practice enhances the overall flavor of the cake, making it not just a dessert but a memory. Since then, I've made this cake countless times, always adapting it with different toppings, and each version has its special charm.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The classic vanilla flavor that never goes out of style
Perfectly moist cake texture that stays fresh for days
Versatile for any occasion—dress it up or keep it simple

Mastering the Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture in a vanilla butter cake is essential for an enjoyable eating experience. The creaming method in this recipe is crucial; you'll want to ensure your butter and sugar are beaten until they are light and fluffy, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This process incorporates air, leading to a moist cake with a delightful crumb. If you under-cream the mixture, your cake may turn out dense.

Be mindful of your mixing when adding the eggs. It's best to incorporate them one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows the eggs to emulsify properly with the butter and sugar, giving your cake a uniform texture. Overmixing at this stage can lead to a tougher cake, so aim for just combined without overdoing it.

Choosing the Right Flour and Fats

All-purpose flour is the star ingredient in this cake, as it provides the necessary structure without being too heavy. If you're looking for a lighter texture, you could experiment with cake flour, but be cautious to avoid a cake that’s too soft. Moreover, using unsalted butter is a recommendation because it allows better control over the saltiness of your cake; you can always add salt, but reducing it if the butter is salted can be tricky.

An important tip is to ensure your butter is well-softened before creaming; it should feel like slightly cooled dough. If your butter is too cold, it will not whip properly, resulting in a dense batter. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave the butter for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring it is softened but not melted.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

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 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your classic vanilla butter cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, alternately with the milk.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Cool completely before frosting as desired.

Enjoy your delicious cake with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. You can also add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

Storage and Freshness Tips

This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake can be stored for several days if done correctly. Once cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. In fact, storing it at room temperature will keep it fresh for about 3-5 days. If you plan on keeping it longer, you can freeze the cake; just ensure it's wrapped well to avoid freezer burn.

When freezing, slice the cake ahead of time for convenient servings later. You can thaw individual slices at room temperature for an hour or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds. If you’ve layered the cake with frosting, consider freezing it uncut, which can help retain the frosting's texture.

Serving Variations

While this cake is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with a variety of toppings and fillings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze can enhance its classic flavor without overwhelming it. For a more decadent twist, pair it with a rich chocolate ganache or a whipped cream layer topped with seasonal fruits for added freshness.

Another great idea is to transform leftovers into a trifle. Layer cake pieces with whipped cream and fruit in a glass for a stunning dessert. This not only ups the presentation but adds delightful layers of flavor and texture that make use of your buttery vanilla cake in a creative way.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to maintain balance.

→ What should I do if my cake is domed?

You can use a serrated knife to level the top before frosting.

→ How can I make this cake chocolate?

Replace 1 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

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