Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:47:20.051Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. Its fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it the perfect base for any frosting or simply enjoyed on its own.

Why You'll Love This Cake

  • Rich vanilla flavor that delights the senses
  • Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to tea time

The Perfect Base for Any Celebration

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake stands out as a versatile dessert that can be dressed up or down for any gathering. Whether it's a birthday bash, a festive holiday celebration, or a simple afternoon tea, this cake serves as a delightful centerpiece. Its rich vanilla flavor ensures it appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

One of the best aspects of this cake is its adaptability. You can serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, or take it a step further by adding your favorite frosting, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. This flexibility allows you to customize it based on the occasion and personal preferences, ensuring that it fits perfectly into any event.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect moist texture, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when measuring flour. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake, while too little can affect the structure. Additionally, allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing, as this helps create a smoother batter that incorporates air more effectively.

Another tip for ensuring your cake remains moist is to avoid over-mixing once you combine the dry and wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Also, keep an eye on your oven temperature, as ovens can vary. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, consider covering the cake with foil towards the end of the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, presentation can elevate the experience. Consider slicing the cake into elegant squares or triangles and placing them on a decorative platter. Accompany the cake with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A sprig of mint on top can add a touch of color and freshness.

For a more sophisticated touch, you can pair the cake with a flavored simple syrup or a fruit compote. Drizzling a homemade raspberry or lemon syrup over each slice not only adds a burst of flavor but also creates a visually appealing dessert. This cake also pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect addition to your next gathering.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

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.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake!

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to enjoy it within a few days. If you need to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece whenever you crave a sweet treat.

When you're ready to indulge in a frozen slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For an added touch, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance its delightful buttery aroma.

Variations to Try

While the Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is delicious on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors. For a chocolate twist, simply swap out a portion of the flour for unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also add lemon or almond extract in place of the vanilla for a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.

Another fun variation is to fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the batter before baking. This not only adds texture but also introduces new flavors that can make the cake even more enjoyable. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with cake flour for a lighter texture.

→ How do I store the cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

→ What frosting pairs well with this cake?

A classic buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements the vanilla flavor beautifully.

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Ideas

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  3. ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 1 cup milk
  5. 3 large eggs
  6. 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  7. 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  8. ½ 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.

Step 03

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 04

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

Step 05

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 06

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 07

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

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