Butter Cake Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a classic treat that’s as nostalgic as it is irresistible: Butter Cake. This golden, tender-crumbed cake delivers pure comfort with every bite, boasting a rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it as an afternoon snack or dressing it up for a festive occasion, Butter Cake never fails to charm with its simplicity and timeless appeal. If you’re searching for a foolproof cake recipe that will delight everyone at the table, you’ve just found it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Butter Cake plays a starring role, coming together to create a cake that’s both simple and extraordinary. Select high-quality staples to achieve the most tender texture and deep, satisfying flavor.

• All-purpose flour (200 grams): The backbone of the cake, it provides a sturdy but soft crumb. Sift well for a smooth texture.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): This ensures your Butter Cake rises evenly and stays fluffy.
• Caster sugar (200 grams): Fine sugar blends seamlessly into the batter and gives the cake sweet balance without any grittiness.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just a pinch sharpens all the flavors and cuts the richness perfectly.
• Unsalted butter (250 grams): Star of the show! Use room temperature, high-quality butter for the richest flavor and most delicate crumb.
• Eggs (4, at room temperature): These add both structure and tenderness—room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter.
• Milk (4 tablespoons): Softens the crumb and adds moisture so your cake isn’t dry.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash brings out all the buttery notes and gives the cake a warm aroma.

How to Make Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Tin and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), ensuring it’s nice and hot when your batter is ready. Line a 7 or 8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper, or grease it well with butter and dust it with flour. This prevents sticking and helps your Butter Cake release effortlessly when baked.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together at least two to three times. This crucial step aerates the mixture, gets rid of any lumps, and guarantees your cake bakes up extra light and fluffy. Don’t rush—sifting truly makes a difference!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and caster sugar together until the mixture looks pale and creamy. This step incorporates air, making your Butter Cake beautifully soft. Take your time here; a good 4-5 minutes of creaming does the trick.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps maintain a smooth, even batter, and stops it from curdling. Don’t worry if it looks slightly split—it’ll come together once you add the remaining ingredients!

Step 5: Mix in Vanilla

Pour in the vanilla extract and mix just until it’s fully incorporated. That dreamy aroma immediately starts to bloom at this step, making the kitchen smell irresistible already.

Step 6: Combine Flour and Milk

Add the sifted flour mixture in 2–3 parts, alternating with the milk. Gently fold with a spatula after each addition—start and end with the flour. This method keeps the batter light and avoids overmixing, which helps prevent a dense cake.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the velvety batter into your prepared tin, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Your Butter Cake will emerge golden and fragrant, with a lovely domed top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the tin from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto the rack, tapping gently if needed. Allow it to cool completely before slicing—this wait is tough but oh so worth it!

How to Serve Butter Cake

Garnishes

You can keep Butter Cake classic and enjoy it plain (honestly, it’s that good!), or sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. A dollop of whipped cream, a handful of fresh berries, or a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce transforms each slice into dessert heaven.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk. If you’re hosting brunch, serve it alongside fruit salad or with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a more decadent twist.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, slice your Butter Cake into cubes and layer them in parfait glasses with seasonal fruit and a cloud of whipped cream. If you’re feeling decadent, sandwich two slices together with jam or lemon curd. The options are endlessly fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cool, wrap your Butter Cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days, staying moist and flavorful. If you live in a very humid climate, you might want to refrigerate it after the first day.

Freezing

Butter Cake freezes beautifully! Slice it or leave it whole, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature overnight before serving.

Reheating

To revive that freshly baked warmth, pop slices of Butter Cake in a microwave for a few seconds or in a low oven (covered with foil) for about 10 minutes. It’s especially delightful served warm with cold ice cream!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

If you only have salted butter, go ahead and use it! Just omit the added salt from the recipe to prevent your Butter Cake from tasting overly salty. The flavor will still be rich and wonderful.

Why does my Butter Cake turn out dry?

Dryness usually happens from overbaking or using too much flour—remember to measure carefully and check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time. Always store leftover cake well-wrapped to retain moisture.

Can I make Butter Cake ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! Butter Cake actually tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two in advance, wrap tightly, and store at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins?

Yes! This Butter Cake recipe is a fantastic blank canvas. Add citrus zest, almond extract, or fold in a handful of chocolate chips or berries for a personal twist. Just be careful not to overload the batter.

What’s the best way to ensure an even rise?

Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start, and sift your dry ingredients well. Spreading the batter evenly in the pan and baking promptly after mixing also helps prevent peaks and valleys.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bake a cake that’s both simple and absolutely adored by all, make it a Butter Cake! Its buttery richness, dreamy texture, and unbeatable versatility will keep you coming back to this recipe time and time again. Go ahead—whip up a batch and share a slice of pure comfort with those you love.

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