If you’re looking for a simple everyday butter cake recipe, this one is a keeper. Rich, buttery, and perfectly moist, this classic cake comes together with basic pantry ingredients and no fancy techniques — making it the ideal go-to dessert for busy weekdays, casual gatherings, or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee.
Unlike more elaborate layer cakes, this butter cake is baked in a single pan, has a tender crumb, and a golden buttery flavor that needs little more than a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze. It’s the kind of reliable recipe every home baker should have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Cake Recipe
- Rich, buttery flavor in every bite
- Simple, everyday ingredients — no special trips to the store
- Quick to prepare with minimal equipment
- Versatile — enjoy plain, glazed, or with fresh fruit
- Great make-ahead dessert that stays moist for days
Recipe Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Servings | 10 slices |
| Calories | 320 kcal per slice |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
| Course | Dessert |
Ingredients
For the Butter Cake
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, room temperature
For the Simple Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Glaze and Serve (Optional)
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake, slice, and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Cake
- Use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smooth, even batter.
- Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly for a light, tender crumb.
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added — this keeps the cake soft rather than dense.
- Check doneness a few minutes early, as baking times can vary by oven.
Storage Instructions
Store the butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add flavors to this butter cake? Yes — try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or a swirl of cinnamon sugar for variation.
Why is my butter cake dense? This usually happens from overmixing the batter or using cold butter and eggs.
Can I bake this as cupcakes instead? Yes, divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18–20 minutes.
This simple everyday butter cake recipe is proof that the best desserts don’t need to be complicated — just rich, buttery, and made with love.