Simple Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
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 milk

Highlighted under: Timeless Desserts

I absolutely love baking this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake because it captures the essence of home and comfort in every bite. The rich aroma of buttery vanilla fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist. This cake is so versatile that it can be dressed up for special occasions or enjoyed plain with a cup of tea. It only takes a few basic ingredients, which I always have on hand, making it the perfect go-to recipe for any unexpected gathering. Trust me, once you taste this cake, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:41:36.105Z

Baking this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake is a wonderful experience that combines simplicity with extraordinary flavor. I recall the first time I baked it; the cake rose beautifully in the oven, filling my home with a heavenly scent. The key is creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which gives the cake its lovely texture.

One of my favorite tips is to use high-quality vanilla extract, as it truly elevates the taste. I often serve it warm with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert, or just enjoy it plain as a cozy treat. Each bite brings back sweet memories!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor that is comforting and familiar
Buttery crumb that melts in your mouth
Perfectly versatile for any occasion or celebration

Understanding Ingredients

The key ingredient in this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake is the unsalted butter, which not only enriches the flavor but also contributes to the cake's tender crumb. Always ensure your butter is softened to the right temperature, ideally around 65°F (18°C), as this allows for better incorporation with sugar, resulting in that delightful fluffy texture. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with equal parts of margarine, but keep in mind it may alter the cake's richness.

Granulated sugar adds sweetness and assists in the cake's structure by helping to aerate the butter during the creaming process. If you're looking to cut down on sugar, you can replace half of it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but remember that moisture levels in the batter might increase, so slight adjustments in flour may be necessary.

Baking Techniques

When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light, fluffy texture that should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it introduces air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake. If your mixture looks greasy or doesn’t achieve a fluffy texture, it might need a few more minutes of mixing. Don’t rush this process; a well-creamed mixture yields a superior cake.

Baking time can vary slightly based on your oven's calibration and the type of cake pans used. For best results, check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested time by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on it!

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 milk

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another 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, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a glaze or frosting of your choice. If you want to add a bit of zing, a hint of lemon zest in the batter works wonders too!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Simple Vanilla Butter Cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. If you're preparing even further in advance, consider freezing the layers. Just wrap them tightly in plastic followed by aluminum foil; they can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting or serving.

For those who want to enjoy a slice of cake later, consider freezing individual portions. Slice the cooled cake, wrap each piece, and store them in an airtight container. This way, you can savor a piece of comfort whenever you like. When ready to eat, just let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.

Creative Variations

While this recipe shines in its simplicity, you can easily customize it for varied flavors. For a chocolate twist, swap out 1 cup of all-purpose flour for cocoa powder. Adding orange or lemon zest can bring a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with the vanilla. Feel free to fold in fresh berries or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor—just be cautious not to overmix.

For a layered cake, consider adding a flavored frosting, like cream cheese or chocolate ganache. Whether you go for a simple vanilla buttercream or a rich chocolate glaze, a good frosting can elevate your cake from everyday treat to a show-stopping dessert. Just ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

While butter gives the best flavor, you can use an equal amount of a neutral oil. However, the texture will be slightly different.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I do if my cake is too dense?

Ensure that you haven't overmixed the batter and that your leavening agent is fresh. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.