Looking for the perfect butter cake recipe that’s soft, moist, and easy to make? This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough, showing you how to create a classic homemade butter cake using pantry staples. Known for its golden crust, rich buttery flavor, and tender crumb, this cake is a timeless dessert you can bake for birthdays, afternoon tea, or everyday indulgence.
What makes this butter cake stand out is its simplicity and versatility; you don’t need fancy equipment or rare ingredients. Just a handful of basics, a good creaming method, and you’ll have a cake that’s foolproof, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you serve it plain, dusted with sugar, or layered with frosting and fruit, this recipe is the ultimate foundation for countless variations.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Cake
- Classic flavor: Rich, buttery taste with a perfectly soft texture.
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
- Versatile: Great plain, frosted, or paired with toppings.
- Foolproof: Beginner-friendly, yet impressive every time.
What You’ll Need
Equipment
- 9″ Baking Pan
- Hand Mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients for butter cake
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup butter (room temperature)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9″ baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Put aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar
Cream the butter & sugar together until the mixture is soft and fluffy. This process helps achieve a soft, tender crumb in the baked goods.
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Alternatively, add the dry mixture and milk until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool & Serve
Let cool before slicing. Serve plain, or with your favorite toppings.
How to Make Simple Butter Cake
Equipment
- 1 spatula
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup butter softened
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 cup milk warm
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Sift together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Next cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect, tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the dry ingredients with milk to keep the batter smooth and silky. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool before slicing, and you’ve got a classic butter cake ready to enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Why This Simple Butter Cake Stands Out
The magic of butter cake lies in its balance of flavor and texture. Butter keeps the crumb moist, while sugar and a hint of salt enhance richness. It’s classic on its own, but you can easily:
- Add almond essence for a nutty twist.
- Mix in lemon or orange zest for brightness.
- Top with powdered sugar, frosting, or whipped cream.
The buttery aroma while baking makes it irresistible, and every bite melts in your mouth. It’s the ultimate comfort cake that never goes out of style.
Serving Ideas
- Every day treat: Dust with powdered sugar.
- Celebration cake: Frost with buttercream or ganache.
- Elegant touch: Pair with fresh fruit compote or ice cream.
Nutrition (per slice, approx.)
- Calories: 290
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
Benefits of Butter Cake
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Classic & versatile | Works for any occasion |
| Beginner-friendly | Simple steps & ingredients |
| Customizable | Easy to add flavors or toppings |
| Comforting | Nostalgic, homemade charm |
Related Cake Recipes
- Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
- The Ultimate Apple Cake Recipe
- Delicious Strawberry Cake
- Delicious Pineapple Coconut Cake Recipe
- Moist and Easy Carrot Cake
Wrapping It Up – A Classic That Never Fails
This simple butter cake is proof that sometimes the most basic recipes are the most beloved. With its rich buttery flavor, moist texture, and endless versatility, it’s a dessert you’ll return to again and again. Bake it for special occasions or as a simple weekday treat—either way, it will always impress.
For more classics, please explore our complete Cake Recipes Collection on Divine Dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the difference between butter cake and pound cake?
Butter cake is lighter, fluffier, and uses more leavening. Pound cake is denser.
Q2: How do I keep my butter cake moist?
Don’t overbake, and always use room-temperature butter for proper creaming.
Q3: Can I make butter cake ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Q4: What frosting goes best with butter cake?
Classic buttercream, chocolate ganache, or a simple glaze all pair beautifully.
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