Butter Cake Recipe
Introduction
There’s something magical about a classic Butter Cake – its soft and moist texture, its rich buttery flavor, and its beautifully golden crust. If you’re in search of a simple yet utterly delightful homemade dessert, this Butter Cake has everything you need. From family dinners to festive celebrations, it’s a versatile treat that works on any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to bake with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Unsalted Butter
The butter provides a rich and creamy flavor – you’ll want 1 cup, softened to room temperature.
Granulated Sugar
To give the cake its sweetness, you’ll need 2 cups of sugar.
Eggs
Four large eggs are essential for the cake’s structure, contributing to its moist and fluffy texture.
All-purpose Flour
For the foundation of this cake, measure 2 and 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour.
Baking Powder
This is a key ingredient to help the cake rise. Use 1 tablespoon of baking powder.
Milk
Add 1 cup to keep the texture soft and to blend all the flavors together.
Vanilla Extract
A splash of vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) enhances the cake’s flavor with a subtle sweetness.
Prep Time
Preparation for this Butter Cake is quick and hassle-free. In just 15 minutes, you can gather and mix your ingredients, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the baking process without any unnecessary stress.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cake cooks perfectly in about 50 minutes, transforming into a golden and moist masterpiece. With the prep time included, the total time is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, leaving you with a delectable dessert ready to serve. This recipe yields an 8×8 inch single-layer cake that serves about 12 people, making it perfect for any gathering or family treat.
In the end, this Butter Cake is a testament to simple yet satisfying baking. It’s warm, buttery, and deeply comforting – a fantastic dessert for those who love classic homemade cakes. Perfect for all occasions, this versatile cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure the butter cake releases easily once baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set the mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on the speed of your mixer.
Step 4: Add the Eggs One at a Time
Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Incorporate Vanilla Extract
Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the batter.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
Alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk into the wet mixture. Start with the flour mixture, adding it in three parts, and alternate with the milk in two parts. Begin and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 7: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Transfer the cake to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Once completely cooled, slice the butter cake into squares or desired portions and serve. Enjoy its rich buttery flavor!
Notes
Note 1: Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting the recipe. This helps achieve a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
Note 2: Measuring the Flour
To avoid a dense cake, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Do not scoop directly from the bag, as this can pack in too much flour.
Note 3: Storage Tips
Store the butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. If freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Note 4: Parchment Paper Lining
Using parchment paper to line the baking pan ensures that the cake will release cleanly after baking, making it easy to remove and serve.
Note 5: Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing the batter after the dry ingredients are added can result in a dense cake. Mix until just incorporated for the best buttery, fluffy texture.
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Cook Techniques
1. Preparing the Batter Correctly
Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth batter and prevents curdling during mixing.
2. Creaming Butter and Sugar
Properly cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, making the cake tender and giving it its characteristic light texture.
3. Gradual Incorporation of Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and liquid mixture into the batter. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to maintain the batter’s consistency.
4. Preventing Overmixing
As soon as the ingredients are combined, stop mixing. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake. Combine only until no flour streaks remain.
5. Preparing the Baking Pan
Before pouring the batter, grease the baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake does not stick after baking and comes out cleanly.
6. Checking for Doneness
Use a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent deflating the cake.
7. Cooling the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents residual heat from overbaking or sweating the cake.
FAQ
What is a Butter Cake?
A Butter Cake is a rich, tender, and moist cake that uses butter as one of the main ingredients, giving it a soft crumb and buttery flavor. It is a classic cake recipe loved for its simplicity and versatility.
What is the Secret to a Moist Butter Cake?
The secret lies in using room-temperature butter and eggs, properly creaming the butter and sugar, avoiding overmixing, and accurately measuring the ingredients. Ensuring you don’t overbake the cake also keeps it moist.
Can I Use Salted Butter Instead of Unsalted Butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may need to adjust the amount of added salt in the recipe. Salted butter has varying salt content, so be cautious when substituting.
Can I Add Flavorings or Mix-ins to the Butter Cake?
Absolutely. You can add extracts such as vanilla or almond for flavor, or mix-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruits, nuts, or even citrus zest to enhance the cake.
How Should I Store the Butter Cake?
Store the cooled Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you live in a humid climate, it is best to refrigerate it. Bring the cake to room temperature before serving.
Can I Freeze Butter Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Butter Cake. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the cake at room temperature before serving.
Why Did My Cake Turn Out Dense?
A dense cake may result from overmixing the batter, using cold ingredients, or overbaking the cake. Ensure proper creaming of butter and sugar and follow the recipe instructions carefully for the best texture.
Can I Use This Recipe for Layer Cakes or Cupcakes?
Yes, this Butter Cake recipe works great for layer cakes or cupcakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly – cupcakes typically take less time to bake than a full cake.
Do I Need a Stand Mixer to Make Butter Cake?
A stand mixer makes the process easier, but you can also use a handheld electric mixer. It may take a little longer to cream the butter and sugar, but the results will still be excellent.
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Conclusion
This butter cake recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. It’s moist, buttery, and perfectly sweet, making it an instant classic in any household. Perfect on its own or paired with a topping of your choice, it’s a versatile dessert that will surely impress. Bake this simple yet delicious cake and indulge in pure culinary comfort.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Butter Cake
Add a tangy twist by incorporating fresh lemon zest and juice into the batter. Top with a lemon glaze for a refreshing finish.
Chocolate Butter Cake
Swap a portion of the flour with cocoa powder to create a rich and chocolaty variation. Pair it with a creamy chocolate ganache or a dollop of whipped cream.
Fruit-Filled Butter Cake
Fold fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples into the batter for an added burst of flavor and texture.
Vanilla Almond Butter Cake
Add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla extract for a nutty nuance. Garnish with toasted almond slices for a crunchy contrast.
Butter Cake Trifle
Layer slices of baked butter cake with custard, whipped cream, and fruit for an elegant and indulgent dessert combination.
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