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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love a good vanilla butter cake, and this recipe is a true classic! The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich flavor that's perfect for any occasion. The cake is soft, buttery, and ideal for layering with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate. I've made this cake countless times, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Whether I’m celebrating a birthday or just indulging on a Sunday afternoon, this cake always hits the spot. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:06:38.344Z

Every time I bake this classic vanilla butter cake, I travel back to my childhood. I can remember my grandmother teaching me the tricks to achieving the perfect rise and moist texture, like creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Her secret ingredient was always a dash of love, which I now pass along in every slice I share.

Recently, I experimented by adding almond extract alongside the vanilla, and the results were delightful! The subtle nutty flavor paired beautifully with the cake's buttery taste. If you're looking to make a cake that's a crowd-pleaser, remember to not overmix the batter to keep it light and airy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for any frosting or toppings
Perfectly moist and easy to make

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The ingredients in this vanilla butter cake work harmoniously to create a perfectly textured and flavored dessert. The unsalted butter is crucial as it allows you to control the salt content while contributing to the cake's rich, buttery flavor. Using high-quality granulated sugar is also important, as it aids in achieving that light and fluffy texture during the creaming process. Additionally, the combination of eggs not only provides moisture but also structure, resulting in a cake that’s soft yet stable enough to hold its shape when layered or frosted.

Vanilla extract plays a critical role in this cake, providing depth of flavor that elevates it from plain to exceptional. For a more intense vanilla taste, consider using vanilla bean paste or even fresh vanilla beans. Both options will add little flecks of vanilla throughout the cake, enhancing its appearance and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute some of the butter with Greek yogurt or applesauce, but be prepared for a slightly different texture.

Baking for Success

The baking process is just as crucial as the mixing, and attention to detail can make all the difference. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the cakes inside. This temperature allows the batter to rise properly without overbaking. Remember to check the cakes around the 25-minute mark; they are ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too soon, as this can cause the cakes to sink.

Cooling is another critical step often overlooked. After taking the cakes out of the oven, let them rest in the pans for 10 minutes, allowing the structure to set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack for complete cooling. If you don’t have a wire rack, placing them on a plate will suffice, but be aware that this can trap steam and potentially make the bottom soggy. Serve the cooled cake plain, or with a light dusting of powdered sugar, or dress it up with your favorite frosting for added flair.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect vanilla butter cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease 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 5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Dry with Wet Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla butter cake with your favorite frosting or toppings!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of almond extract along with the vanilla. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for better incorporation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This vanilla butter cake can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for gatherings and celebrations. Once completely cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For extended storage, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure you double-wrap it to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying.

If you have leftover cake, I recommend storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will maintain its moist texture for a couple of days. For longer freshness, consider layering pieces of parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking, which also makes it easier to grab a slice whenever a craving strikes.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this vanilla butter cake with fresh seasonal fruits is a fantastic way to enhance its flavor. Slices of ripe strawberries, blueberries, or peaches create a refreshing contrast to the rich cake. A simple drizzle of chocolate ganache or a light vanilla glaze can add an elegant touch. For a more indulgent experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate dessert time.

If you want to get creative, consider flavoring your frosting or toppings. Adding a splash of almond extract or citrus zest to buttercream can create unique flavor profiles. You can also experiment with filling the layers with jam, curd, or mascarpone cheese to keep your guests guessing with each bite. This versatility makes this cake a wonderful blank canvas for a variety of themes and celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

→ What frosting pairs well with this cake?

A classic buttercream frosting or cream cheese frosting works wonderfully with vanilla butter cake.