Classic Butter Cake

This butter cake is soft, rich, and incredibly moist—a perfect treat for any occasion. With its golden crust and tender crumb, it pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, birthdays, or just because you crave something sweet, this timeless cake never disappoints.

History of Butter Cake

Butter cake has its roots in European baking, particularly in England and France. It evolved from traditional pound cakes, which used equal parts butter, sugar, flour, and eggs. Over time, the recipe was refined with leavening agents like baking powder to create a lighter, fluffier texture. Today, butter cakes are a staple in home baking, loved for their simple ingredients and irresistible flavor

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Garnish (Optional):

Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Honey or syrup drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a loaf or square cake pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture.
Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Methods for the Best Butter Cake

Use room temperature ingredients – This helps the batter mix evenly for a smoother cake.
Cream butter and sugar properly – This step incorporates air, making the cake light and fluffy.
Do not overmix – Overmixing leads to a dense cake. Mix just until combined.
Check for doneness early – Oven temperatures vary, so check your cake around the 40-minute mark.
Cool completely before slicing – This helps maintain the cake’s structure and moisture.

Benefits of Butter Cake

Rich in energy – Butter and sugar provide a quick energy boost.
High in protein – Eggs and milk add protein to support muscle health.
Comfort food – The nostalgic flavor brings warmth and joy.
Versatile – Can be served plain, with fruit, or topped with frosting.

Nutrition (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Sugar: 25g
Fiber: 1g

Who Loves Butter Cake?

Home bakers – It’s easy to make and never fails to impress.
Cake lovers – The moist, buttery texture makes it a favorite.
Kids and adults alike – A simple yet irresistible treat for all ages.
Coffee and tea drinkers – Pairs perfectly with a hot beverage.

Conclusion

This classic butter cake is a foolproof recipe that delivers buttery richness and a soft, fluffy crumb. Whether you enjoy it as is, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with syrup, it’s a treat that never goes out of style. Bake it once, and you’ll come back to it again and again!