Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (240ml) whole milk

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that delights with its rich vanilla flavor and tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:41:19.042Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. Its buttery flavor and moist texture make it perfect for any celebration or as a delightful treat with a cup of tea.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that everyone adores
Soft and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to tea parties

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Celebration

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a versatile dessert that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its rich vanilla flavor is universally loved, making it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both young and old alike.

This cake serves as a fantastic base for various toppings and frostings. From a simple dusting of powdered sugar to lavish buttercream or cream cheese frosting, the possibilities are endless. You can also customize it with fresh fruits or chocolate drizzles to suit your taste and the theme of your event.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure your butter is adequately softened before creaming with sugar. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, leading to a light and fluffy texture. You can achieve this by leaving the butter out at room temperature for about an hour before starting your recipe.

Additionally, be mindful of your mixing technique. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined when adding the dry ingredients. This will ensure that your cake retains its moist and tender crumb, making every slice a delight.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is baked and cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing the layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the layers at room temperature and frost as desired.

For a delightful serving suggestion, pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, make a lovely garnish and add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (240ml) whole milk

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost as desired.

Enjoy your homemade Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake!

Why Vanilla is a Classic Flavor

Vanilla has long been a beloved flavor in desserts around the world. Its warm, sweet notes evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making it a staple in many homes. The use of pure vanilla extract in this recipe enhances its depth, providing a rich aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.

Not only does vanilla taste delicious, but it also pairs beautifully with a wide range of other flavors. Whether you want to add a hint of almond, a splash of citrus, or even a touch of chocolate, vanilla serves as a perfect base, allowing you to get creative with your baking.

Making it Your Own

One of the joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences. For this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, consider adding a twist by incorporating lemon zest or almond extract in place of some vanilla. These subtle changes can provide a new dimension of flavor while maintaining the cake's beloved characteristics.

You can also experiment with fillings and frostings. Consider layering the cake with a fruit preserve or chocolate ganache for added richness. The beauty of this cake lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it truly your own with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a similar texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months.