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

Highlighted under: Baked Perfection

I absolutely love baking, and this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake has become one of my go-to recipes. Its rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweet aroma of vanilla fills my kitchen and makes every gathering feel special. When I serve this cake, it always impresses guests with its tender crumb and moist texture. I appreciate how versatile it is, allowing me to dress it up with various toppings or enjoy it plain with a cup of tea. Baking this cake truly brings joy to my home.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:45:35.108Z

Baking this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake was such a delightful experience. I remember experimenting with different butter brands and vanilla extracts to find the perfect balance that makes this cake sing. The method of creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy ensures a light and airy texture, which I’ve found is key to achieving that restaurant-quality cake at home.

One of my favorite tips is to use room temperature eggs and ingredients; this really helps in achieving that seamless batter consistency. Plus, I've learned that letting the cake cool completely before frosting it makes a world of difference in the taste and appearance!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Perfectly moist crumb you can't resist
Versatile base for your favorite frostings and toppings

Mastering the Basics

Understanding the role of each ingredient in this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is crucial to achieving the ideal texture and flavor. Butter contributes moisture and richness, while granulated sugar not only sweetens but also aids in creating a light, airy crumb when cream together with butter. Make sure the butter is at room temperature and soft enough to easily cream, as this will help incorporate air and achieve the proper lift during baking.

Using room temperature eggs and milk is equally important as it promotes better emulsification, leading to a smooth batter and consistent rise. If you forget to take your eggs out ahead of time, you can place them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes. The temperature of your ingredients can significantly impact the final texture of the cake, so don’t skip this step.

Perfecting Your Bake

When it comes to baking time, keep an eye on your cake after the 25-minute mark. Every oven can behave a bit differently, so while the recipe suggests 30 minutes, your cake may need slightly more or less time. Look for a golden top and a toothpick testing clean in the center; if it comes out with wet batter, continue baking in 2-3 minute increments until done.,

If you notice the edges of the cake starting to brown too quickly, you can cover them with a strip of aluminum foil. This prevents the outside from burning while the inside continues to bake. Remember, letting the cake set in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack allows it to firm up slightly, which helps prevent breakage.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect vanilla butter cake:

Ingredients

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

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create a delicious cake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious vanilla butter cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

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

Once cooled, frost and decorate as desired!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract for a flavor twist. Always check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.

Substitutions and Variations

This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is highly adaptable. If you want to reduce the amount of sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit in a 1:1 ratio. For those allergic to dairy, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. These swaps can maintain the structure and moistness of the cake, while giving it a slightly different flavor profile.

Add-ins can enhance your cake further; try folding in a cup of chocolate chips, or nuts for a bit of texture. Alternatively, consider swapping the vanilla for almond extract, which will give a unique twist. Fresh or dried fruits, like berries or citrus zest, also pair beautifully, adding both flavor and moisture.

Storing and Serving

Storing your Classic Vanilla Butter Cake properly can extend its freshness. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, this cake freezes well; just ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn—up to three months is optimal for best quality.

When ready to serve, you can simply dust the top with powdered sugar for a light touch, or cream your favorite frosting. The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings! Fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a rich chocolate ganache can elevate it to a stunning dessert centerpiece.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but if you use salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake in advance and freeze it. Just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use almond milk, soy milk, or even buttermilk as a substitute.