Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that delights with its rich flavor and tender crumb.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:43:18.946Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a family favorite, perfect for any occasion. Whether served plain or dressed up with frosting, it never fails to impress.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that is perfectly balanced
Moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for any frosting or topping

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is incredibly versatile, making it the ideal choice for various celebrations and gatherings. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a family reunion, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, this cake fits the bill beautifully. Its rich flavor and moist texture ensure it can stand alone or be enhanced with a variety of frostings and toppings, allowing you to customize it to suit any palate.

Moreover, this cake serves as an excellent foundation for creativity in the kitchen. You can pair it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even a luscious chocolate ganache. The possibilities are endless, making it a staple recipe that you can return to time and again, each time adding your personal touch.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture for your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, it's essential to use room temperature ingredients. Cold butter and eggs can prevent proper creaming and emulsion, resulting in a dense cake. Allow your butter to soften and your eggs to come to room temperature before you start baking, ensuring a light and fluffy final product.

Additionally, be mindful of your baking time. Every oven varies slightly in temperature, so it's crucial to check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to come out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, which is the opposite of what you want with this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, consider pairing it with a simple dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Alternatively, a rich buttercream frosting or a homemade cream cheese icing can elevate the cake to new heights of indulgence. Top it off with seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast that enhances the vanilla flavor.

For a fun twist, try transforming this cake into a layered dessert. Slice it horizontally and fill the layers with your favorite jam or frosting. Add fresh berries or even a layer of chocolate ganache between the layers for an extra treat. This not only makes for a stunning presentation but also allows your guests to enjoy a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
2 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Once cooled, you can frost it with your favorite icing or serve plain.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftovers, you can also refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration may change the texture slightly, making it a bit denser. To enjoy its best flavor and texture, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

If you're planning to make the cake ahead of time, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to sit at room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

While the Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is delicious as is, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit different flavors. For a citrus twist, add the zest of a lemon or orange to the batter. This brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing element that pairs beautifully with the vanilla.

You can also experiment with different extracts. Almond extract can be used in place of vanilla for a different flavor profile, or you could even add a splash of coconut extract for a tropical vibe. These simple substitutions can transform your cake into something uniquely yours while maintaining its moist and tender texture.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute cake flour for a softer texture, but the cake may be less sturdy.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

You can add lemon zest, chocolate chips, or nuts for additional flavor and texture.