Butter Cake
Butter cake is an absolute delight that combines the rich flavor of butter with a tender crumb, making it the perfect canvas for frosting, berries, or simply enjoyed on its own. In this post, you’ll learn how to create a perfect butter cake from scratch. It’s a straightforward recipe that anyone can master, and with just a few common ingredients, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This butter cake recipe creates a moist and buttery dessert that is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a birthday party, gathering with friends, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home. The beautiful golden crust combined with a soft, delicate interior gives you a taste that celebrates simplicity yet feels decadent. Additionally, this cake can be paired with various toppings or enjoyed plain, making it versatile and appealing to everyone.
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Butter Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to achieve a fluffy batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep your cake light and airy.
- Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly. An adequately heated oven helps the cake rise evenly.
- Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add lemon zest, almond extract, or chocolate chips to the batter for an exciting twist.
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial to making a perfect butter cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The air trapped in this mixture will help your cake rise.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps in evenly incorporating the eggs without curdling the mixture.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix gently until just combined, then pour in the milk and vanilla extract. Stir until combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Again, be cautious not to overmix, as this can produce a dense cake.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking to avoid overbaking.
Step 9: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it is advisable to reduce or skip the added salt in the recipe to avoid a cake that is too salty.
How do I store leftover butter cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it if you want to keep it fresh longer, but it may dry out slightly.
Can I freeze butter cake?
Yes, butter cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I serve with butter cake?
Butter cake tastes wonderful on its own, but you can also serve it with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruits like berries.
Can I add flavors to the butter cake?
Absolutely! You can add extracts like almond or lemon, citrus zest, or even cocoa powder for a chocolate variation. Just be mindful of the amount so that it doesn’t alter the cake’s texture.
Conclusion
This butter cake recipe is a timeless classic that combines simplicity and deliciousness in every bite. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a cake that will leave everyone wanting more. Remember, the joy of baking lies in experimenting and personalizing your recipes, so feel free to make this butter cake your own. Happy baking!
