Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Highlighted under: Cozy Classics

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. It's soft, buttery, and bursting with vanilla goodness, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Lara

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:00:18.979Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake has been a family favorite for generations. Its rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with fresh fruits or a dusting of powdered sugar, making it a versatile choice for any dessert table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich vanilla flavor that delights the senses
  • Incredibly moist texture that keeps you coming back for more
  • Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

A Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is not just any dessert; it's a celebration of flavor and simplicity. This cake shines at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and casual get-togethers alike. Its versatile nature means you can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dressed up with fresh fruits and whipped cream. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this cake always delivers a delightful experience that brings people together.

In addition to being a crowd-pleaser, this cake is also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of basic ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich base, while the vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that elevates this cake to new heights.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake has cooled, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its moisture and flavor. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and aluminum foil, ensuring each piece remains fresh for up to three months.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for added sweetness and visual appeal. For a more festive touch, add seasonal fruits like berries or citrus slices, which not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful pop of color.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, it's crucial to use room temperature ingredients. Cold butter and eggs can hinder the creaming process, leading to a denser texture. Allow your butter to sit out for about an hour before starting, and crack your eggs into a bowl to bring them to room temperature as well.

Additionally, be mindful of your mixing technique. Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake, so mix just until the ingredients are combined. If you're looking to add a personal touch, consider incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of fruit preserves into the batter before baking. These small additions can make your cake uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar 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 Mixtures

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and serve.

Enjoy your delicious cake with a cup of tea or coffee!

Why Vanilla?

Vanilla is often referred to as the queen of flavors, and for good reason. Its rich, sweet aroma and complex flavor profile bring warmth to baked goods, making it a beloved ingredient in many desserts. This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake showcases vanilla as its star, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through with every bite.

The use of high-quality vanilla extract is essential for elevating this cake. Pure vanilla extract, as opposed to synthetic options, adds depth and authenticity to the flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try using vanilla beans for an even more intense taste and beautiful speckled appearance.

Serving Variations

This cake is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various serving occasions. For a cozy family dinner, slice it into squares and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar. For special events, elevate your presentation by layering the cake with buttercream frosting and fresh fruit, transforming it into a stunning centerpiece.

Consider using this cake as a base for trifle desserts. Layer cubes of the cake with layers of custard, fresh berries, and whipped cream for an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow your guests. Each layer will complement the moist texture of the cake, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

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Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, using cake flour will result in an even lighter cake.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of milk?

You can substitute milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. It's soft, buttery, and bursting with vanilla goodness, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Lara

Recipe Type: Cozy Classics

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 2 cups granulated sugar
  4. 4 large eggs
  5. 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  6. 1/2 cup whole milk
  7. 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Step 05

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

Step 06

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 07

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and serve.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g