Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is one of my all-time favorite recipes. The aroma of butter and vanilla filling my kitchen never fails to bring back wonderful memories. This cake is the perfect combination of moist texture and delightful flavor, making it a versatile choice for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy afternoon treat with a cup of tea. I always keep the ingredients on hand so I can whip it up whenever the craving strikes!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:54:34.974Z

When I first tried making this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding it was. The key is in the creaming method: beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy creates that airy texture that everyone loves. This cake is moist without being dense, and cutting into it feels like slicing through a fluffy cloud.

Over time, I've experimented with different additions like almond extract or fresh berries to enhance its flavor. Each time, it turned out delicious, proving just how versatile this cake truly is. Whether served plain or dressed up with frosting, it never disappoints.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Rich buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for layering or enjoying on its own

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For optimal flavor and texture in your Classic Vanilla Butter Cake, start with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Unsalted butter should be at room temperature, which helps create a light and airy batter when creamed with sugar. Using room temperature eggs ensures they incorporate smoothly without cooling down the mixture. Fresh vanilla extract, preferably pure rather than imitation, delivers a pronounced aroma and flavor that elevates the cake’s overall taste.

Always measure your ingredients accurately. For this cake, I recommend using a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour. Scooping flour directly from the bag can lead to compacting and result in a denser cake. Instead, lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in the cake's final texture.

Techniques for a Perfect Bake

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be cautious not to over-mix. Once you see the ingredients just combined, stop. Over-mixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher cake rather than the desired light and fluffy texture. A gentle fold with a spatula after initial mixing can help ensure a delicate crumb.

Keep an eye on the baking times. Each oven is unique, so do a toothpick test starting at 30 minutes to check for doneness. The cake should spring back when lightly pressed, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Allowing it to cool in the pans helps maintain its structure before transferring to a wire rack.

Ingredients

Gather these essential ingredients for a scrumptious Vanilla Butter Cake:

Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

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

Make sure to properly measure your ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect 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 mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

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, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and begin mixing until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans and bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious cake with a cup of tea or celebrate with friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of whipped cream and fresh fruit between the cake layers, or dusting the top with powdered sugar for a rustic look.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake is perfect for make-ahead baking. Once fully cooled, you can wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the layers. Just remember to double-wrap in plastic and cover with aluminum foil. To thaw, place the wrapped cake layers in the refrigerator overnight for about 8 hours before frosting.

If you want to prepare the cake batter in advance, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, give the batter a stir before pouring it into prepared pans. However, avoid freezing the batter since it may affect the leavening agents, leading to a denser final product.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is versatile and pairs well with various toppings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a classic vanilla buttercream frosting allows the cake's rich flavor to shine. For a twist, consider adding fresh fruit preserves or a layer of whipped cream between the cake layers for added freshness and texture.

For a delicious flavor pairing, enjoy your cake with freshly brewed coffee or tea. The comforting aroma and flavor of vanilla complement the warmth of these beverages beautifully. Additionally, consider serving slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert experience that will please everyone at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but it will alter the flavor slightly. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ Can this cake be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make this cake chocolate-flavored?

Simply replace 1 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a delightful Chocolate Vanilla Butter Cake.

→ What’s the best way to store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness.