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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights

I absolutely love baking, and this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is one of my all-time favorites! The rich and buttery flavor combined with its fluffy texture makes it a perfect base for any frosting or filling. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; the aroma that filled my kitchen was just heavenly! Baking this cake has become our family tradition for special occasions, and every time I make it, the joy it brings is simply unmatched. Let me share with you how to create this delectable dessert that is sure to impress.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:29:34.232Z

When I first made this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake, I was amazed at how simple the process was, yet the outcome was so beautiful and delicious. I used high-quality vanilla extract and real butter, which really elevated the flavor. Baking at an even temperature is crucial, so I always preheat my oven and allow ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures that my cake rises beautifully and has that light, airy texture that we all love.

One memorable moment was when I baked this cake for my friend's birthday. I topped it with a rich chocolate ganache, and the combination was incredible! Everyone raved about the cake, and I can't help but smile thinking about their happy faces. It's a reminder of how sharing homemade treats can create lasting memories. Don’t rush the cooling process – let it cool completely before slicing to preserve that perfect crumb!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor that comforts the soul
Perfectly moist and fluffy texture
Versatile base for endless toppings and variations

The Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfectly fluffy texture in your Classic Vanilla Butter Cake. When butter is softened, it incorporates more air during creaming, resulting in a lighter and airier cake. Similarly, room temperature eggs blend more easily with other ingredients without cooling down the mixture, ensuring an even batter. Aim to leave your butter and eggs out for about 30 minutes before you start baking for the best results.

If you're short on time, you can gently warm up cold eggs by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. This trick makes them easier to mix into the batter while still providing that essential moisture and lift. Just be careful not to overthink the temperatures; extreme heat can render your ingredients unusable!

Essential Baking Tips

For this butter cake, precise measurements are vital. A kitchen scale can be incredibly helpful if you want to ensure that the flour is not packed down too tightly, as this can lead to a dense cake. If you don't have a scale, use the scoop and level method: scoop the flour into the measuring cup without packing it, then level off with a knife for accuracy. This will help you achieve that light and fluffy texture we all love.

When dividing the batter into the pans, I suggest using a kitchen scale to ensure equal amounts. This helps the cakes to bake evenly and prevents one from baking faster than the other, which can affect layering later on. If you notice your cakes doming in the center as they bake, a simple fix is to level them with a serrated knife once they’ve cooled slightly.

Ingredients

Classic Vanilla Butter Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature to ensure even mixing.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mixing the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Bake the Cake

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

Cooling and Serving

Remove the cakes from the oven and cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy your delicious cake with your favorite frosting or simply with a dusting of powdered sugar!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake can be made a day in advance, which makes it a great option for gatherings. To store, wrap the cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and keep them at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you're planning to keep it longer, consider freezing the layers. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

If you have leftover cake after serving, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you're using a frosting like cream cheese or whipped cream, refrigerate it instead. Always check for any signs of spoilage before serving leftovers.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This vibrant Vanilla Butter Cake is a versatile canvas for flavors. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite frosting. I love pairing it with a simple buttercream or a light whipped cream topped with fresh berries for a refreshing note. You could even layer it with lemon curd for a zesty twist!

For those looking to experiment with flavors, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract in place of some vanilla for a unique touch. You can also incorporate ingredients like cocoa powder or finely ground nuts into the batter for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that any major substitutions might slightly change the texture, so monitor your baking time closely.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, cake flour will give your cake a lighter texture.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What frosting pairs best with this cake?

A classic buttercream or a rich chocolate ganache works beautifully with Vanilla Butter Cake.