Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole eggs (about 4 large eggs); 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or extract; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Decadent Desserts

I’ve always been enamored with the simplicity and elegance of a classic vanilla butter cake. It’s the kind of cake that evokes nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings where the sweet aroma would fill the room. Each slice offers a perfect balance of buttery richness and vanilla goodness, making it a versatile option for any occasion. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve that delightful texture and flavor. Paired with a light frosting or served alone, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite in your house.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:09:34.885Z

When I first set out to perfect my vanilla butter cake, I knew that the key was high-quality ingredients. I experimented with various vanilla extracts and found that using a pure vanilla bean paste provided an intense flavor that truly elevated the cake. Each bite was a harmonious blend of moisture and lightness, making it disappear quickly at our gatherings!

This cake has a wonderful versatility — it can be dressed up with fresh fruits or left plain for an understated elegance. I love serving it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream, which really enhances the simple yet luxurious flavors. It never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously moist texture that captivates the palate
Perfect balance of sweetness with rich vanilla notes
Easily customizable with layers or toppings for festive occasions

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of ingredients in this vanilla butter cake is fundamental to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Unsalted butter is preferred as it allows for better control over the salt content, ensuring a sweeter, more balanced cake. Granulated sugar not only sweetens but also assists in aerating the butter during the creaming process, creating that light and fluffy foundation essential for a successful butter cake. If you run out of unsalted butter, you can substitute it with an equal amount of margarine, though the flavor may vary slightly.

Using whole eggs is crucial because they add moisture and fat, contributing to the cake's richness and tenderness. Each egg should be at room temperature to ensure even mixing; this can be achieved by placing them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to your batter. In baking, the role of milk is twofold: it enhances the cake's flavor while also hydrating the dry ingredients. For a lighter texture, you might substitute whole milk with buttermilk, which also adds a subtle tang.

Baking Tips for Success

When preparing your cake pans, greasing and flouring is a vital step that prevents sticking. I recommend using a non-stick spray for the grease and gently tapping flour around the sides and bottom. This ensures that your baked cakes release cleanly, maintaining their beautiful shape. After adding the batter to the pans, give the pans a gentle tap on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles that may create uneven textures during baking.

Baking time can vary depending on your oven’s calibration and the type of cake pans used. I suggest checking for doneness at the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the top is browning too quickly, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil to avoid over-baking while the center finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful classic vanilla butter cake.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake the perfect vanilla butter cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until fully combined and smooth.

Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve the cake plain or frost with your favorite icing for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding citrus zest or almond extract to the batter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This vanilla butter cake can easily be made ahead of time and stored for future enjoyment. After cooling completely, wrap each layer securely in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, freeze the layers, ensuring they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

For a fresh taste, I recommend frosting the cake closer to serving time. This not only maintains the cake's moisture but also keeps the frosting light and airy. If you do have leftover frosted cake, cover it loosely with foil or wax paper rather than plastic wrap to prevent the frosting from getting sticky.

Serving Ideas and Variations

While this vanilla butter cake shines on its own, feel free to elevate it for special occasions. Adding layers of whipped cream and fresh berries produces a stunning and delicious vertical presentation. Alternatively, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze or a chocolate ganache on top for a richer flavor profile. If you're looking to create a themed cake, consider adding food-safe coloring to buttercream or using seasonal fruits to decorate.

If you're feeling adventurous, try infusing the cake with different flavors by adding a teaspoon of orange or almond extract in addition to the vanilla. For a twist, incorporating chocolate chips or shredded coconut can provide an extra flavor depth. This versatility makes it easy to adapt the recipe for various events, from birthdays to holidays.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, cake flour can be used for a finer texture, but it may alter the cake's density slightly.

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.

→ Can I freeze the vanilla butter cake?

Absolutely! Ensure the cake is completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for unsalted butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free substitute, but the flavor might differ slightly.