If you’ve been searching for a classic dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, look no further than this Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe. This cake has it all: a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, a buttery richness that comforts your soul, and a simplicity that makes it achievable for any home baker. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll create a cake that’s perfect for afternoon tea, celebrating special moments, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. Get ready to fall in love with a butter cake that’s as timeless as it is tasty!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—just straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create this delightful Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe. Each has its own role: butter lends that signature richness, sugar sweetens without overpowering, and vanilla adds a gentle aromatic warmth. Together, they promise a cake that’s effortless yet extraordinary.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter ensures a smooth batter and contributes to the cake’s moist, tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: This sweetens the cake just right and helps in creating a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- 3 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients and add richness and structure to the cake.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundational ingredient, providing the cake’s soft but sturdy structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This gentle leavening agent helps the cake rise beautifully without any heaviness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or your choice): Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender with a subtle creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, comforting aroma and depth of flavor.
- Powdered sugar, for dusting: A light dusting adds a pretty finishing touch without extra sweetness.
- Fresh berries or whipped cream, optional: For an extra special presentation and an added burst of freshness or richness.
How to Make Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While it heats up, grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This step might feel simple, but it’s crucial for easy cake removal and a flawless presentation.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a strong wrist with a whisk. Keep blending until the mixture turns light, creamy, and fluffy, usually about three to four minutes. This creams in air, forming the backbone of your cake’s soft texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time
Now, crack in the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. This gradual approach ensures the eggs fully incorporate, preventing the batter from splitting and keeping the cake tender and uniform.
Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Alternately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then slowly add this dry mix to your butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. The key here is not to overmix; you want a light, airy crumb rather than a dense cake.
Step 5: Stir in Vanilla Extract
With a spatula, fold in the vanilla extract evenly through the batter. This little addition elevates the flavor beautifully, giving your Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe an inviting warmth and aroma.
Step 6: Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting from your oven will be downright irresistible!
Step 7: Cool and Remove
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for around 10 minutes to set up nicely, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps prevent soggy edges and ensures clean slices.
Step 8: Add Finishing Touches
Once cool, dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegantly simple finish. If you want to get fancy, fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream are perfect accompaniments to highlight the rich flavors.
Step 9: Slice and Enjoy!
Slice up this buttery masterpiece and serve with your favorite tea or coffee. It’s an unbeatable treat that’s sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds!
How to Serve Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe

Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders, giving your cake a delicate, sweet sheen that looks as good as it tastes. For extra flair, top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a pop of color and refreshing bite. Whipped cream also pairs beautifully if you want to add a luscious, creamy dimension.
Side Dishes
Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe naturally shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a vibrant fruit compote on the side. These add moistness and flavor contrasts that turn your dessert into an experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve individual slices with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch. You can even cut cubes of the cake and layer them with cream and fresh fruit in a parfait glass to elevate presentation and taste. Let your imagination run wild!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining softness and that irresistible buttery flavor.
Freezing
Butter Cake freezes like a charm. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices securely in plastic wrap, then foil, to protect against freezer burn. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To revive the cake’s softness, warm slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven (300°F/150°C) wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes. Warm cake with a little butter melting on top? Yes, please!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can, but reduce or skip the salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty cake. Unsalted butter offers better control over seasoning.
Is it okay to substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk will work fine, although the cake might have a slightly different texture or flavor.
How do I know when the butter cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.
Can I use a different size cake pan?
Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly. Thicker cakes need longer, thinner cakes less. Keep an eye on the cake and test with a toothpick.
What can I do if my butter cake turns out dense?
Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added, as this can develop gluten and make the cake tough. Also, make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate enough air.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe truly is a treasure in every bite. It’s straightforward yet luxurious, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros eager for a dependable crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved classic on your dessert table. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to bake it again and again!
Print
Butter Cake – Simply Delicious, Soft, and Irresistibly Rich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Butter Cake recipe delivers a simply delicious, soft, and irresistibly rich cake that is perfect for any occasion. With a tender crumb and a buttery flavor, this cake is incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed plain or garnished with fresh berries and whipped cream for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Butter Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings (Optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries or whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure even incorporation.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract gently using a spatula without overmixing.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Finish and Serve: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar. Optionally, top with fresh berries or whipped cream for extra flavor and presentation.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the butter cake and serve it with tea or as a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to avoid a dense cake.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- You can substitute milk with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- For added flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

