Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 large eggs; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:52:18.765Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its rich vanilla flavor and soft texture make it an irresistible treat.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Rich vanilla flavor that elevates every bite
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for any frosting or topping

      

Perfect for Any Celebration

The Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for any gathering. From birthday parties to weddings, this cake's rich flavor and beautiful appearance make it a perfect choice for celebrations. Its versatility allows you to dress it up with a variety of frostings or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar. No matter how you serve it, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave lasting memories.

What makes this cake truly special is its moist texture and delightful vanilla aroma. Each slice offers a comforting taste that is both familiar and indulgent, inviting everyone to come back for seconds. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, this cake is a timeless classic that fits any occasion.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake turns out perfectly, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar. Remember to sift the dry ingredients together; this aerates the flour and helps create a lighter cake. Additionally, room temperature ingredients mix together more easily, so let your butter, eggs, and milk sit out before you start baking.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while mixing just until combined promotes a tender crumb. Keep an eye on your cakes as they bake, and perform the toothpick test to check for doneness. A few moist crumbs on the toothpick indicate the cake is perfectly baked.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is baked and frosted, consider how you want to serve it. A simple fruit compote or fresh berries can enhance the cake's flavor and add a refreshing contrast. For a more decadent treat, pair it with chocolate ganache or a rich buttercream frosting. You can also serve slices with whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.

If you want to add a fun twist, experiment with different flavor variations. A hint of almond extract or citrus zest can elevate the vanilla flavor profile. You can even incorporate layers of jam or custard between the cake layers for added flavor complexity. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize this cake to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting (Optional)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

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 the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Mixtures

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

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting (Optional)

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together, adding heavy cream and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Cake (Optional)

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides.

Storage and Preservation

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 need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Allergy Considerations

If you're baking for someone with dietary restrictions, this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake can be adapted to accommodate various allergies. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free if needed.

Egg substitutes can also be used to make this cake vegan. Options like flax eggs or applesauce work well in baking, maintaining the moisture and texture of the cake. These small adjustments can make this delightful cake accessible to everyone at your table.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, using cake flour will give your cake a lighter texture.

→ How should 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 the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a different flavor profile.