There's nothing quite like the rich, buttery aroma of a freshly baked butter cake filling your kitchen. This classic treat is soft, moist, and perfectly balanced in sweetness, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion.

I first fell in love with butter cake when my grandmother baked it for family gatherings. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and golden crust always had us reaching for a second slice. Now, it's a staple in my home, whether for birthdays, tea time, or just because.

Why You'll Love This Butter Cake

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate classic cake. This butter cake is a timeless favorite for so many reasons.

First, it's incredibly simple to make with just a handful of pantry staples. No complicated techniques or special equipment needed!

The texture is perfection – soft, tender, and rich with a fine crumb that melts in your mouth. Thanks to the generous use of butter, every bite is luscious and satisfying.

This cake is also versatile. Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream for a more elegant dessert.

Lastly, it stores beautifully, making it perfect for baking ahead. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it's just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this butter cake comes from a few simple yet high-quality ingredients that work together to create an incredibly rich and flavorful treat.

Butter is the star of the show here. I recommend using unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the cake. Make sure it's at room temperature for easy creaming and maximum fluffiness.

Sugar provides sweetness and contributes to the tender texture of the cake. Granulated sugar works best, as it dissolves well during mixing.

Eggs add moisture, structure, and richness. Use large eggs at room temperature for the best results. They help bind the ingredients and give the cake its signature soft texture.

Flour is the backbone of the cake. All-purpose flour is ideal for a balanced crumb – light but not too delicate. Be sure to measure it correctly to avoid a dense cake.

A touch of vanilla extract enhances the buttery flavor and adds warmth. Pure vanilla extract is always the best choice for a rich, deep taste.

You’ll also need a loaf pan or round cake pan to bake this beauty to perfection.

How To Make This Butter Cake

Creating this delicious butter cake is easier than you might think. Let’s go step by step to ensure the best results.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a tender cake.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps maintain the emulsion and creates a smooth batter.

Sift the flour and baking powder together to ensure even distribution. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage Options

This butter cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness.

For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Before serving, bring it to room temperature for the best texture.

To freeze, wrap the cake in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This butter cake is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures.

For a citrusy twist, add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter. This gives the cake a bright, fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich butteriness.

If you prefer a chocolate version, swap out ¼ cup of the flour for cocoa powder. This transforms the cake into a luscious chocolate treat.

Want a nutty variation? Fold in ½ cup of chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

For a richer flavor, replace half of the milk with sour cream or yogurt. This adds tanginess and enhances the moistness of the cake.

However you choose to enjoy it, this butter cake is sure to become a favorite in your home!