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 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

Enjoy the delightful taste of this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:47:18.942Z

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless favorite, cherished for its rich flavor and tender texture. Baked to perfection, it serves as a wonderful base for any frosting or can be enjoyed plain.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delightfully moist and tender crumb
Rich vanilla flavor that comforts the soul
Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to tea parties

      

Perfect for Every Occasion

This Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this cake fits the bill. Its rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings and toppings, making it easy to customize according to your taste preferences. You can keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar or elevate it with a luxurious buttercream frosting.

Moreover, the cake's moist texture makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. It's an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings, where it is sure to earn rave reviews. Whether served as a standalone dessert or accompanied by fresh fruits and whipped cream, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake turns out perfectly, consider a few essential baking tips. First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and eggs. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing. Also, be sure to properly measure your flour; use the spoon-and-level method to avoid a dense cake. Overpacking the flour can lead to a dry texture, which we want to avoid.

Another crucial step is to not overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the lightest, fluffiest cake possible. Lastly, always test for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Serve with your favorite frosting or enjoy plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage Tips

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 want it to last longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can stay fresh for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance the flavor and texture.

For longer 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, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This method preserves the cake’s moisture, ensuring that you can enjoy its delightful taste even after a couple of weeks.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this Classic Moist Vanilla Butter Cake is its adaptability. You can easily transform the flavor profile by adding different extracts, such as almond or lemon. Incorporating chocolate chips or nuts into the batter can also add interesting textures and flavors to your cake.

For a more festive touch, consider adding colorful sprinkles to the batter or using themed decorations for special occasions. You could even create a layered cake by baking multiple layers and alternating them with different fillings, like fruit curd or cream cheese frosting. The options for customization are endless, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

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

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

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can this cake be frozen?

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

→ What frosting goes well with this cake?

Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream are great options.