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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence Recipes

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:52:19.251Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a beloved recipe that has been passed down through generations. Its soft and moist texture, combined with a delightful vanilla flavor, makes it the perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or a cozy afternoon tea.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich buttery flavor that will melt in your mouth
Perfectly moist texture that stays fresh for days
Versatile base for any frosting or fruit toppings

      

The Perfect Cake for Every Occasion

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in every slice. Whether you're preparing for a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Its rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings or can stand alone as a delicious treat with a dusting of powdered sugar. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for any event, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied.

One of the standout features of this cake is its moist texture that remains fresh for days. This means you can bake it ahead of time for your next event or enjoy a slice over several days without sacrificing flavor or moisture. The combination of ingredients works harmoniously to create a cake that is soft, tender, and incredibly inviting, making it a staple in any home baker's repertoire.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the flour and sugar to ensure precision, as improper measurements can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened but not melted; it should be at room temperature to create the perfect creamy consistency when creaming with sugar.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mixing just until the ingredients are incorporated will help maintain the cake's light and airy texture. Remember that a few lumps are okay; they will bake out during the cooking process. Lastly, always test your cake for doneness with a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean, as oven temperatures can vary.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy this cake plain or topped with your favorite frosting!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake has cooled completely, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature and it will retain its delicious flavor and moisture.

When serving, this cake can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with a variety of toppings. Fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries add a lovely tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Alternatively, consider frosting it with a classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a light whipped cream for a delightful treat. Each option enhances the cake's flavor while adding a personal touch to your presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe? Absolutely! If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. Just keep in mind that this may change the texture slightly. You can also use alternative milk options like almond milk or soy milk instead of whole milk, making this recipe more suitable for dietary restrictions.

What if I want to make this cake chocolate-flavored? You can easily transform this vanilla butter cake into a chocolate cake by replacing a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. Use about ¾ cup of cocoa powder and reduce the flour to 1 ¼ cups to maintain the right balance. This simple switch will give you a rich chocolate cake that retains the same moist texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will give you a lighter texture, but you'll need to adjust the measurements slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to make it more flavorful?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.