Butter Cake Recipe
The name itself evokes a sense of richness and comfort. And let me tell you, this recipe absolutely delivers! It’s a classic dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for novice bakers or seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious treat.
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. It uses basic pantry staples, requires minimal equipment, and comes together in a flash.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Wet ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (that’s important!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk, at room temperature
Step 1: Preheat and prep
Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your baking pan ready. An 8-inch square pan works wonders here. Grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Sift and whisk
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt (if using). This aerates the dry ingredients and ensures a light and fluffy cake.
Step 3: Cream together the magic
In another bowl, using an electric mixer or good old-fashioned elbow grease, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, which translates to a delightful cake texture.
Step 4: Add the eggs one by one
Once your butter and sugar are looking dreamy, crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated and emulsified into the batter.
Step 5: Flavor fiesta
Now comes the flavor party! Beat in the vanilla extract for a touch of warm sweetness.
Step 6: Alternate and conquer
Here’s where the magic happens. We’ll alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet ingredients. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Don’t overmix, or your cake will end up dense.
Step 7: Bake it up!
Pour the smooth and luscious batter into your greased pan. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Frosting fun (optional)
While the cake cools, you can whip up your favorite frosting or glaze to add another layer of flavor and decadence. But let’s be honest, this cake is pretty darn delicious on its own too!
Step 9: Slice and savor!
Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Grab a fork, savor the buttery goodness, and enjoy a slice of pure comfort!
Tips for a terrific butter cake:
- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures everything mixes evenly and creates a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix! Overmixing leads to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Feeling fancy? Add a ½ cup of chopped nuts or a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a flavor twist.
- This cake is amazing on its own, but if you’re craving a little something extra, dust it with powdered sugar, drizzle it with a simple syrup, or top it with fresh berries and whipped cream.
So there you have it, folks! This easy butter cake recipe is sure to become a new favorite. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a delightful dessert that anyone can bake. So go forth, butter up your kitchen, and enjoy!
Butter Cake: Beyond the Basics
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is undeniably satisfying, there’s room for creativity! Here are some ideas to inspire your baking adventures:
- Lemon Love: For a citrusy twist, add the zest of one lemon to the batter along with the vanilla extract. You can also drizzle the cooled cake with a simple lemon glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Craze: Chocolate lovers, rejoice! Fold in a cup of your favorite chocolate chips into the batter for a gooey, delightful surprise in every bite.
- Fruity Fiesta: Feeling fruity? Swap out some of the milk (about ¼ cup) for fresh orange juice or pineapple juice. You can also gently fold in chopped fresh berries or stone fruits for a summery twist.
- Coffee Cake Craving: For a coffee cake twist, sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts over the batter before baking. This creates a delicious streusel topping that adds a delightful textural contrast.
Butter Cake Fun Facts
Did you know butter cake has a rich history? Here are some interesting tidbits:
- Origins: Butter cake is believed to have originated in the Southern United States sometime in the 19th century.
- Simple Beginnings: Back then, butter cakes were a humble dessert made with readily available ingredients. They were a delicious way to celebrate special occasions or enjoy a sweet treat after a long day.
- Variations Galore: Over time, butter cake recipes evolved with regional variations. Some incorporated nuts, fruits, or spices, while others were kept simple and elegant.
- A Timeless Treat: Today, butter cake remains a beloved dessert across the US and beyond. Its simplicity, affordability, and versatility continue to win hearts (and stomachs!).
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious dessert, look no further than the humble butter cake. With its endless possibilities and rich history, it’s a true baking gem!
