Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, at room temperature; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature

I love making this classic vanilla butter cake because it always turns out so moist and flavorful. The rich, buttery aroma fills my kitchen and draws everyone in. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday party or just a cozy family dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, requiring simple ingredients I usually have on hand. This cake is a total crowd-pleaser, and each slice offers a deliciously tender crumb that pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:09:38.286Z

When I first experimented with this vanilla butter cake, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could lead to such a delightful result. Using quality butter makes all the difference, lending a richness and depth that elevates each bite. I also found that sifting the flour ensures a lighter texture, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crumb that everyone loves.

One tip I swear by is to take your eggs and butter out of the fridge ahead of time. Room temperature ingredients emulsify beautifully, resulting in a smoother batter and a cake that rises perfectly while baking. Trust me, this little trick takes your cake to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delightfully rich vanilla flavor that never fails to impress
Soft and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Perfect as a base for layered cakes or enjoyed plain

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of this classic vanilla butter cake is the combination of butter and sugar. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your cake, which is especially important in baking. The creaming process, where butter is beaten with sugar, introduces air into the batter, resulting in a light texture. Be sure to allow the butter to soften to room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting; this makes it easier to achieve that creamy, fluffy consistency.

When it comes to flour, using all-purpose flour strikes the perfect balance between structure and tenderness. The protein content in all-purpose flour helps provide the cake with the right amount of lift while keeping it soft. If you're looking for an alternative, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour for an even lighter crumb. However, avoid using whole wheat flour, as it may produce a denser cake than intended.

Key Baking Techniques

When mixing the batter, be cautious not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake rather than the desired delicate crumb. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and you see no streaks of flour. This can take about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on your mixing speed and bowl size.

Baking times can vary based on your oven's calibration. To ensure your cake is perfectly baked, start checking for doneness at around 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If the cakes are browning too quickly on top, you can tent them with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time to prevent burning.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This vanilla butter cake maintains its moisture well at room temperature for up to three days when properly covered. For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for upcoming gatherings.

Serving the cake plain allows the rich vanilla flavor to shine, but you can also get creative. Consider layering it with whipped cream and fresh berries, which add a fruity contrast and a pop of color. For a grown-up twist, brush the layers with a simple syrup infused with vanilla or citrus to enhance the flavor. You could also add a chocolate ganache or a fruit glaze for an extra layer of decadence.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk, at room temperature

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

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, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Batter

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 cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of frosting or fresh fruit between the cake layers. This enhances the flavor and presentation, making it even more delightful!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your cake domes in the center instead of rising evenly, it might be due to an overly hot oven. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated to 350°F, and consider using an oven thermometer to check this. If you're consistently facing this issue, try reducing the baking temperature by 25°F and increasing the baking time slightly, ensuring thorough cooking without excessive rising.

Another common issue is a dense texture, which can result from having cold ingredients or overmixing the batter. Always ensure that your eggs and milk are at room temperature; this helps the ingredients emulsify properly. If you suspect overmixing, remember to reduce mixing time once the dry components are incorporated, as gluten development leads to toughness.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic vanilla flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract to the batter. These additions provide a fresh flavor profile and can enhance the overall aroma of the cake. Alternatively, you can fold in about a cup of mini chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins for added texture and taste.

If you’re looking to create themed cakes, try using colors and flavors that reflect the occasion. For instance, you could add a bit of cocoa powder to half of the batter for a marbled effect or tint the batter with food coloring for festive events. Just remember to maintain the same proportions of dry and wet ingredients to preserve the cake's structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Using margarine or a plant-based alternative may change the flavor and texture, but it can work for those who need a dairy-free option.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.