Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich, buttery flavor of this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:52:18.757Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless recipe that has been cherished by families for generations. Its rich flavor and soft texture make it a favorite for birthdays, weddings, and any celebration.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Perfectly moist crumb that stays fresh for days
Versatile base for countless frostings and toppings

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Celebration

A Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, this cake fits the bill. Its rich flavor and inviting aroma create an atmosphere of warmth and joy, making it a beloved choice for all ages.

The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. It can stand alone, dusted with powdered sugar, or be dressed up with various frostings and toppings. From a simple vanilla buttercream to a luxurious chocolate ganache, the options are endless. This adaptability allows you to personalize the cake for different themes and tastes, ensuring that it remains a favorite at every event.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the ultimate moist and fluffy texture, be sure to use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs. This ensures that they emulsify well, leading to a smooth batter. Additionally, measuring your flour accurately is crucial; using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise results, preventing a dense cake.

When mixing your batter, avoid over-mixing once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined allows the cake to rise beautifully without becoming tough. Lastly, always test for doneness with a toothpick, as every oven varies. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating the cake is perfectly baked.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is baked and cooled, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing the layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they'll last for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

When it comes to serving, slice the cake into generous pieces and pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate this cake to a new level of indulgence. Enjoy experimenting with different accompaniments to find your favorite combination!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious cake:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Mixtures

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

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Once cooled, feel free to frost with your favorite icing or enjoy plain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this cake so moist? The combination of butter and whole milk contributes to the cake's moistness. Additionally, the use of eggs helps create a tender crumb, ensuring that each bite is rich and flavorful.

Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with cake flour for an even lighter texture. Keep in mind that the cake may need slight adjustments in baking time.

Customizing Your Cake

Feel free to infuse this cake with different flavors! You can add citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, incorporating almond extract can give the cake a delightful nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla.

For a more decadent treat, consider folding in chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking. This adds texture and surprise elements that enhance the overall dessert experience, making it even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, cake flour will give you a lighter texture, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What frosting pairs well with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze.