Butter Cake is a timeless classic that boasts a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This recipe captures the essence of a traditional butter cake, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this butter cake recipe for its simplicity and flavor. The ingredients are straightforward, making it easy for beginners and seasoned bakers alike to whip up a batch. The flavor is rich and satisfying, thanks to the generous amount of butter that gives it a moist texture and delightful aroma. Additionally, this cake fits well into various lifestyles, whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert or an elegant treat to impress your guests.
Tips and Tricks
To make your butter cake even more delicious, use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. Allow your butter to come to room temperature before creaming it with sugar; this will ensure a light, fluffy texture. For a more flavorful cake, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the batter. If you want to save time, measure out your ingredients ahead of time and have them ready to go before starting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Another mistake is not properly measuring the flour; using too much can make the cake dry. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Lastly, be cautious about baking time; every oven is different. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare this butter cake in advance by baking it a day or two before you plan to serve it. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. The flavors will meld beautifully over time. If you want to prepare the batter ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, but make sure to bring it to room temperature before pouring it into the pan.
Recipe Variations
For a twist on the classic butter cake, try adding lemon zest or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy flavor. You can also fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and taste. For a fun variation, layer the cake with whipped cream and fresh berries to create a delightful berry shortcake.
How to Serve
Serve your butter cake plain, dusted with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant touch. For a more decadent experience, drizzle it with a warm chocolate ganache or a rich caramel sauce. Garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible finish. Presentation is key—consider plating the cake on a beautiful cake stand to showcase its golden crust.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this buttery delight with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. If you prefer something a little stronger, a glass of dessert wine or a sweet cocktail complements the richness of the cake beautifully. For side dishes, a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the cake’s sweetness and adds a refreshing touch.
How to Store
To store leftovers, wrap the butter cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake by wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Equipment Needed
You will need basic baking equipment including:
- A mixing bowl
- An electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A rubber spatula
- A 9×5-inch loaf pan or a round cake pan
- Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
Dietary Adaptations
To make this butter cake recipe vegan, substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use a flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacement. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. If you have nut allergies, ensure that any alternative ingredients do not contain nuts or nut-based products.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, consider adding fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches to the batter for a seasonal twist. In the fall, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to evoke the flavors of autumn. In winter, a splash of peppermint extract can create a festive holiday butter cake.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this butter cake recipe is approximately $5-$7 for the entire cake, depending on the quality of your ingredients. Each slice costs around $0.50-$0.70, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. For a more economical choice, you can use store-brand ingredients.
Kitchen Hacks
To save time on cleanup, line your baking pan with parchment paper before pouring in the batter. This will make it easier to remove the cake once it’s baked. To quickly soften butter, cut it into small cubes and leave it out at room temperature for about 15 minutes, or microwave it in short 5-second bursts.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use salted butter? Yes, but if you do, omit the added salt in the recipe for a balanced flavor.
Can I substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour? Yes, but the texture may be denser. Consider using a blend of both for better results.
How do I know when the cake is done? Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, but not wet batter.
Butter Cake
Butter Cake is a timeless classic that boasts a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This recipe captures the essence of a traditional butter cake, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Yield
12Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 416Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 104mgSodium 335mgCarbohydrates 59gFiber 1gSugar 35gProtein 6g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Baking a butter cake is an incredibly rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked goodness. This recipe is designed for anyone—from novice bakers to experienced cooks—looking to create a simple yet delicious dessert. Enjoy the process, and remember that the best part is sharing it with friends and family. Happy baking!