There's nothing quite like the rich, buttery aroma of a freshly baked Butter Cake filling your kitchen. With its golden crust and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this classic dessert is a comforting treat that never goes out of style. Whether you're serving it as a simple snack, dressing it up with fresh fruit and whipped cream, or enjoying it with a cup of coffee, this Butter Cake is a timeless favorite.

I first fell in love with Butter Cake when my grandmother made it for special occasions. She believed in using only the best butter, which made all the difference in creating the cake's signature flavor. Now, I make this recipe whenever I want to bring a little extra warmth and nostalgia to my home.

Why You'll Love This Butter Cake

Get ready to fall in love with the perfect balance of sweetness and buttery goodness. This Butter Cake is not just a dessert—it's a comforting, homemade delight that fits any occasion.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple pantry staples, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it perfect for last-minute baking.

It's also versatile. Enjoy it on its own, dust it with powdered sugar, or add your favorite toppings like berries, chocolate sauce, or even a scoop of ice cream.

If you love moist and tender cakes, this recipe is a dream come true. The high butter content keeps every bite rich and flavorful, while the cake stays soft for days.

Best of all, it's a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving guests or treating yourself, this Butter Cake is always a hit, with its simple yet irresistible flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Butter Cake lies in its high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Butter is the star of the show here. Using a high-quality, unsalted butter gives the cake its rich flavor and tender crumb. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, even batter.

Sugar adds the right amount of sweetness while helping to create a tender texture. I prefer using granulated sugar, as it blends seamlessly with the butter during creaming.

Eggs provide structure and moisture. Make sure they are at room temperature to help the batter mix evenly and create a light, fluffy cake.

Flour is essential for structure, and I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture. If you want a finer crumb, cake flour is a great alternative.

You'll also need baking powder to give the cake a gentle rise and a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of almond extract for extra depth.

A stand mixer or hand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier, ensuring your cake turns out perfectly light and fluffy.

How To Make This Butter Cake

Baking this Butter Cake is as simple as following a few key steps. Let's walk through the process so you can achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard 9-inch cake pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for extra easy release.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating an airy cake, so beat the mixture for at least 3-5 minutes.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air and keeps the batter smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract for that delicious, warm aroma.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. This ensures even mixing and helps keep the batter light and smooth.

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should have a beautiful golden-brown top.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. The wait is the hardest part, but it's worth it!

Storage Options

This Butter Cake keeps well, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying over several days.

For room temperature storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. Before serving, let it come to room temperature for the best texture.

Butter Cake also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm it up slightly in the microwave.

To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked warmth.

Variations and Substitutions

This Butter Cake is a great base recipe, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own!

If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle the finished cake with melted chocolate.

For a citrusy twist, stir in a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest. It brightens up the cake and pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Want to make it extra moist? Substitute half of the milk with sour cream or yogurt for an even richer texture.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to keep the texture light.

Experiment with different extracts! Almond, coconut, or even a splash of rum extract can bring a whole new flavor dimension to this classic Butter Cake.

No matter how you make it, this Butter Cake is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade cake with every bite!