There's something undeniably comforting about a slice of classic butter cake—rich, moist, and infused with the unmistakable warmth of real butter. Whether enjoyed plain with a cup of tea or dressed up with frosting for a celebration, this cake is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for the perfect birthday cake for my grandmother. She always loved simple yet decadent desserts, and this butter cake quickly became a family tradition. Now, it's my go-to for any occasion, from afternoon treats to festive gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Butter Cake

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate buttery indulgence. This butter cake isn't just delicious—it’s the perfect combination of texture and flavor.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results.

The flavor is pure nostalgia. The deep, rich taste of butter combined with a hint of vanilla makes every bite a comforting experience.

It stays moist for days. Thanks to the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and eggs, this cake remains soft and tender, even after a couple of days.

Best of all, it's versatile. Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, topped with fresh fruit, or layered with frosting—it adapts beautifully to any occasion.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this butter cake comes from its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating its rich and moist texture.

Butter is the star of the show. Use high-quality, unsalted butter for the best flavor. Let it come to room temperature so it creams easily with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy batter.

Sugar adds sweetness and structure. Granulated sugar is ideal, as it helps aerate the butter when creamed, resulting in a tender crumb.

Eggs provide richness and stability. Use large eggs at room temperature to ensure they incorporate smoothly into the batter, helping create a delicate structure.

Flour gives the cake its body. All-purpose flour works perfectly, but for an even softer texture, you can use cake flour.

Baking powder ensures a perfect rise. It helps the cake bake evenly and develop a tender crumb without being too dense.

A splash of vanilla extract enhances the cake’s natural buttery flavor. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.

How To Make This Butter Cake

Baking this butter cake is a straightforward process, but a few key steps will ensure the perfect texture and flavor.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your cake pan. This ensures an even bake and easy release once the cake is done.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cake, as it incorporates air into the batter.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth batter and helps maintain the cake’s structure.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Sifting helps aerate the flour, leading to a lighter cake.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. This prevents overmixing and ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool before slicing and serving.

Storage Options

To keep your butter cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The butter keeps it moist, but if you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about butter cake is its versatility. Here are some fun variations to try:

Lemon Butter Cake: Add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy twist.

Chocolate Butter Cake: Mix in two tablespoons of cocoa powder and an extra tablespoon of milk for a subtle chocolate flavor.

Nutty Butter Cake: Fold in chopped almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch in every bite.

Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter for a high-quality plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.

No matter how you make it, this butter cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!