Butter Cake Recipe
Butter cake traces its roots back to the 18th century in Europe, evolving as bakers began incorporating more butter into traditional sponge cakes. It gained popularity in the United States during the colonial era when access to ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour became easier.
Equipment
- Stand mixer or handheld electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round or square baking pan
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups (285 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (180 ml) whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat Your OvenSet your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare Dry IngredientsIn a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and SugarIn a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps create a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and VanillaOne at a time, beat in the eggs, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients and MilkReduce the mixer speed to low. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts (starting and ending with the dry ingredients). Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Transfer to the PanPour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- BakeBake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the CakeLet the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Serve and EnjoySlice and serve as is, or pair it with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.