Introduction
Butter Cake is a beloved classic that delivers a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb. It’s a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from everyday treats to special celebrations. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just someone with a sweet tooth, this Butter Cake is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Butter Cake is for those who appreciate the pure and delightful taste of butter in a cake. It’s perfect for:
- Baking Enthusiasts: If you love to bake and want to master a classic cake recipe, this is a must-try.
- Special Occasions: Butter Cake is versatile enough to be a centerpiece at any celebration.
- Simple Dessert Lovers: Sometimes, the simplest desserts are the most satisfying, and this cake fits the bill.
What Makes Butter Cake Special?
Rich and Buttery Flavor
As the name suggests, the star of this cake is the luxurious flavor of butter. It’s a treat for the taste buds.
Versatile
You can enjoy Butter Cake as is or dress it up with a variety of toppings and frostings, making it versatile for any occasion.
Minimal Ingredients
With just a handful of basic ingredients, this cake is easy to make.
Nostalgic
Butter Cake is a taste of nostalgia for many, bringing back memories of homemade desserts.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the process of making Butter Cake, let’s gather our ingredients:
For Butter Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
Directions
Now, let’s get into the process of creating this classic Butter Cake:
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This might take a few minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
- Mix until the batter is smooth, but be cautious not to overmix.
Bake
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with only a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the Butter Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake is fully cooled, it’s ready to be sliced and enjoyed.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make Butter Cake, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan: For baking the cake.
- Mixing Bowls: For mixing the batter.
- Electric Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
- Whisk: For combining the dry ingredients.
- Wire Rack: For cooling the cake.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any Butter Cake leftovers (though it’s so delicious, leftovers are rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The cake should stay fresh for a few days.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
While classic Butter Cake is delightful, you can experiment with variations:
- Lemon Butter Cake: Add lemon zest and juice for a zesty twist.
- Chocolate Butter Cake: Mix in cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a chocolatey version.
- Berry Topping: Top slices of Butter Cake with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Buttercream Frosting: Frost the cake with a rich buttercream frosting for a more decadent dessert.
FAQ
Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: You can use salted butter, but if you do, you may want to reduce the additional salt in the recipe slightly to control the overall saltiness of the cake.
Q: Can I make this in a different pan?
A: You can use different pans, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller pans may result in thicker layers and longer baking times, while larger pans may result in thinner layers and shorter baking times.
Q: Can I freeze Butter Cake?
A: You can freeze Butter Cake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should keep well in the freezer for a few months.
Q: Can I add frosting to this cake?
A: Certainly! Butter Cake pairs wonderfully with various frostings, such as buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze.
Conclusion
Butter Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s all about celebrating the rich and buttery flavor. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, it’s a timeless treat that brings comfort and delight to any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, bake a classic Butter Cake, and relish the wonderful flavors of this beloved dessert. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delectable recipes and culinary inspiration. Enjoy!