Butter Cake
Indulging in a slice of butter cake is like a warm hug for your taste buds. This classic dessert is known for its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture, making it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delectable cake that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this butter cake recipe will guide you through every step to ensure delicious results every time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is 50-60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is based on a standard slice size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Additionally, almond milk can replace regular milk for a nutty flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Butter cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like berries or a dollop of whipped cream. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store the butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately.
- Overmixing the batter, leading to a dense cake.
- Skipping the creaming step for butter and sugar.
- Not preheating the oven before baking.
- Opening the oven door too soon while baking.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending.
- For added flavor, incorporate lemon zest or almond extract.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting for best results.
FAQs
What is butter cake?
Butter cake is a rich, moist cake made primarily with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. It’s known for its dense texture and buttery flavor, making it a classic dessert choice.
Can I make butter cake without eggs?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like applesauce, mashed bananas, or commercial egg replacers to make a vegan version of butter cake.
How do I know when my butter cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the pan.
Can I freeze butter cake?
Yes, butter cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to enhance the flavor of butter cake?
You can enhance the flavor by adding extracts like vanilla or almond, or incorporating citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Butter cake is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible for all bakers. Enjoy it plain or dressed up with fruits and creams, and savor the delightful buttery goodness with every bite.

Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.