Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 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; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Rustic Sweet Bakes

I absolutely adore baking, and this classic vanilla butter cake has become one of my all-time favorites. It's the perfect blend of buttery richness and sweet vanilla flavor that never fails to bring joy. Every bite takes me back to my childhood, where I experimented in the kitchen with my mom. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a beautiful centerpiece for any occasion. Whether it's a casual family gathering or a special celebration, this cake always delights and impresses everyone with its simplicity and deliciousness.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:05:34.558Z

One day, I decided to elevate my baking skills by attempting a classic vanilla butter cake. After some research, I discovered that using room temperature ingredients can make a significant difference in achieving a light and fluffy texture. I love the way the scents fill my kitchen as the cake bakes, reminding me of warm memories.

When testing the recipe, I found that mixing the butter and sugar until fluffy is crucial for creating the perfect crumb. This extra step creates air pockets that give the cake its delightful rise. Trust me, the aroma while it bakes is pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor that everyone will adore
Moist, tender crumb with every slice
Perfectly pairs with fresh fruits or whipped cream

The Importance of Proper Mixing

The process of creaming the butter and sugar is critical for achieving a light texture in this vanilla butter cake. When you beat these two ingredients together, air is incorporated, which helps to give the cake its rise. Aim for a fluffy, pale mixture, typically about 3-5 minutes of mixing with a stand mixer on medium speed. If overmixed, the batter may become dense, so it's essential to watch for the right consistency.

Incorporating the eggs one at a time allows for thorough blending and even emulsification. This step is particularly important because it ensures that the fat in the butter binds well with the liquid from the eggs, resulting in a rich texture. Make sure to mix well after each addition to avoid any separation. If you notice curdling, continue mixing gently; it usually resolves with the addition of dry ingredients.

Boosting Flavor and Variations

Vanilla extract serves as the star flavor in this cake, but you can enhance it further by using high-quality extracts or even vanilla bean paste for added depth. If you’re looking to experiment with flavors, consider adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the batter. This not only infuses the cake with a refreshing twist but also complements the vanilla beautifully.

For those needing dietary adjustments, this cake can be made gluten-free using a suitable 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Alternatively, if you want a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the texture might slightly vary, so the baking time may need minor adjustments—keeping an eye on your cake as it bakes will help you achieve the right doneness.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start baking to ensure a smooth process.

Ingredients

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat your oven and greasing the baking pans is the first step to start your baking adventure.

Preheat 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 the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Let your cake cool completely before frosting or serving to ensure the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract when mixing the wet ingredients.

Storage Tips

To keep your cake fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for about a week. However, for optimal texture, I recommend either freezing the unfrosted layers or the whole cake. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, and then let it come to room temperature for a couple of hours before serving. Frosting will adhere better to a slightly chilled cake, so consider this if you plan on decorating it.

Serving Suggestions

This classic vanilla butter cake is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced peaches add a delightful contrast, while a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream can elevate it to a decadent dessert. You might also consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an easy, elegant finish.

For a festive touch, layer the cake with your favorite jam or fresh fruit compote between the layers and frost with vanilla buttercream. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds visual appeal, making it a stunning centerpiece for birthday parties or special gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

→ How can I make the cake chocolate-flavored?

You can substitute 1 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a delicious chocolate version.

→ What type of frosting works best with this cake?

A classic buttercream frosting pairs beautifully, but cream cheese frosting is also a great choice.

→ Can I store this cake?

Yes, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.