Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 1 cake
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Indulge in the rich flavors of our Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, a timeless dessert perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:54:19.380Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a beloved recipe that has stood the test of time. Its soft texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a favorite for birthdays, celebrations, and afternoon teas.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and buttery flavor that satisfies every sweet tooth
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Versatile base for various toppings and frostings

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, our Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is the ideal dessert. Its rich and buttery flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone will leave with a smile. This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits or a scoop of ice cream, making it a versatile option for any gathering.

One of the standout features of this cake is its moist texture. Unlike many cakes that can dry out quickly, this recipe keeps its freshness for days. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert that can be prepared in advance and stored, allowing you to enjoy it at your leisure without compromising on quality.

Tips for Baking Success

For the best results, always use room temperature ingredients when baking. This ensures that your butter can cream with the sugar effectively, creating a light and airy batter. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake, so spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for precision.

Another key to achieving that perfect rise is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Mix just until combined to prevent developing the gluten too much, which can make the cake tough. Lastly, don’t forget to check your cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Every oven is different, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean for the perfect bake.

Customizing Your Butter Cake

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake serves as a fantastic base for a variety of flavors and toppings. Consider infusing the batter with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give it a personalized twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh berries to elevate the flavors and textures.

When it comes to frosting, the options are endless. Whether you choose the optional buttercream frosting provided in the recipe or opt for a cream cheese frosting or a light whipped cream topping, each will add its unique flair. Feel free to decorate with sprinkles, fruit, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting (optional)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

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.

Combine dry ingredients

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

Mix dry and wet ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, frost with the optional frosting.

Serve your delicious cake with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour is recommended for its balanced protein content, you can experiment with cake flour for an even lighter texture. Just be mindful of the adjustments needed in measurements.

How should I store the cake? To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, which can last for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this delicious vanilla butter cake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a light and refreshing dessert. For a more indulgent treat, try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzling it with chocolate sauce.

Consider transforming this cake into a layered masterpiece by slicing it in half and adding your favorite filling such as fruit preserves or chocolate ganache. This not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the presentation, making it perfect for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will give the cake a lighter texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative for a similar texture.