If you have been searching for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth dessert to bring warmth and joy to your table, this Soft Butter Cake Recipe is your ultimate go-to. This classic cake boasts a tender crumb with a rich buttery flavor that invites you to savor each bite like a little slice of comfort. Whether you are baking it for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, this Soft Butter Cake Recipe promises soft, fluffy texture and a simple elegance that pairs beautifully with just about any accompaniment you can imagine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Soft Butter Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture that defines this cake’s tender crumb and rich taste.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the cake’s rich, creamy base and helps achieve that soft texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and aids in creating a light, airy crumb when creamed with butter.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature: Act as the binding agent while contributing to the cake’s moisture and structure.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The cake’s foundation, providing the structure needed to hold everything together.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Works as the leavening agent to make the cake rise beautifully fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature: Adds moisture and helps keep the cake tender and soft.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, inviting aroma and subtle sweetness.
How to Make Soft Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring a hot and steady temperature for even baking. Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan so your cake releases easily after baking, delivering those perfect edges.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is vital as it aerates the batter, setting up the perfect texture for your Soft Butter Cake Recipe.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure the mixture remains smooth and well combined. Using room temperature eggs helps the batter emulsify better, contributing to a tender crumb.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures the leavening and salt are evenly distributed throughout your flour, which is key for consistent rise and flavor.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture to maintain a smooth batter. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing and toughening the cake.
Step 6: Add Vanilla and Bake
Gently fold in the vanilla extract for a fragrant touch, then pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to promote even baking. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, giving you that perfect moist and soft cake.
Step 7: Cooling Time
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to settle before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling completely ensures the cake holds its shape and texture beautifully.
How to Serve Soft Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This Soft Butter Cake Recipe shines even brighter with the right finishing touches. A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal, while a dollop of freshly whipped cream creates a creamy contrast to the cake’s tender crumb. For added freshness, top with a handful of fresh berries or thinly sliced fruit to bring vibrant color and a hint of natural tartness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Soft Butter Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo or drizzle warm berry compote over the top to add an inviting warmth and richness. A cup of strong coffee or fragrant tea complements the buttery flavors perfectly, making it an ideal treat for afternoon gatherings or cozy weekend brunches.
Creative Ways to Present
Why stop at a plain cake? Use this Soft Butter Cake Recipe as a base for layered desserts by slicing it horizontally and adding layers of fruit preserves, pastry cream, or frosting between the layers. You can also cut the cake into cubes and skewer them for bite-sized cake pops, perfect for celebrations and sharing with friends!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Soft Butter Cake keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This preserves its softness and flavor, so you can enjoy the same fresh taste as day one.
Freezing
If you want to save your delicious cake for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer without sacrificing texture or taste. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To revive your Soft Butter Cake after storing or freezing, warm it slightly in a microwave or oven to bring back that freshly baked softness. A quick 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave or 5 minutes in a low oven works wonders and makes it taste as lovely as when it first came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but since salted butter contains salt, consider reducing or omitting the additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty cake. Unsalted butter gives you better control over the flavor balance.
Why is my butter cake dense instead of soft?
A dense cake often results from overmixing the batter or incorrect measurements. Be sure to mix just until combined and measure your ingredients accurately. Also, using room temperature ingredients helps create a lighter texture.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with cake flour?
You certainly can! Cake flour has less protein, which can make your Soft Butter Cake even softer and more delicate. Just use the same amount and enjoy an extra tender crumb.
Is it necessary to use room temperature eggs and milk?
Using room temperature eggs and milk helps the ingredients blend more easily, producing a smoother batter that bakes evenly. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle or result in uneven texture.
How long does this cake stay fresh once baked?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this Soft Butter Cake Recipe stays fresh and soft for about three days at room temperature. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing is recommended for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Soft Butter Cake Recipe is such a lovely way to fill your kitchen with the aroma of homemade goodness and delight your loved ones at any occasion. Its simplicity is its charm, creating a tender, buttery cake that feels like a gentle hug in every bite. I encourage you to try it out soon and discover just how wonderfully versatile and satisfying a homemade butter cake can be.
Print
Soft Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Soft Butter Cake is a classic American dessert known for its tender crumb and rich buttery flavor. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, it’s a versatile cake perfect for any occasion. The cake bakes to a moist, soft texture and can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with fruits and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Butter Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth, well-mixed batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until all ingredients are combined to avoid over-mixing.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor enhancement.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake set and prevents it from breaking apart.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try using browned butter instead of softened butter or add a splash of almond extract to the batter.
- This cake can be served plain, with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Soft Butter Cake is an excellent base for layered desserts where you can add fillings and frostings.
