If you’re craving a slice of homemade comfort, nothing quite hits the spot like this classic Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe. It’s a timeless treat that fills your kitchen with the warm scent of baked butter and vanilla, and every bite delivers a tender, moist crumb that’s simply irresistible. This cake’s simplicity is its charm—using pantry staples elevated by a few key steps ensures a rich, buttery texture and a golden crust that takes you right back to grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple ingredients, each plays a vital role in crafting the perfect Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe. From the smoothly creamed butter to the gentle rise from baking powder, these essentials combine to shape a cake that tastes like a warm hug.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and tenderness for the cake.
- 2 tsp baking powder: The gentle leavening agent that lifts the cake for a soft, airy crumb.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor intensity subtly.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Delivers richness and moisture, essential for that buttery signature.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens while contributing to a tender texture and golden crust.
- 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness, helping the cake stay moist.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the butter beautifully.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and softens the crumb for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth feel.
How to Make Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This precise temperature ensures the cake bakes evenly, forming that lovely golden crust. Grease and flour your 9×9-inch square or 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking and give your cake a smooth release.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step disperses the leavening agent evenly so your Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe rises perfectly every time without any uneven spots.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 4-5 minutes. Creaming well is crucial because it traps air, which helps give your cake a beautifully tender texture and a light crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture, richness, and a comforting flavor depth to your cake.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry mix, then milk, and finish with dry again, mixing just until combined. Be mindful not to overmix; this keeps the cake tender and avoids toughness.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time is the sweet spot for a moist interior and slightly crisp edges—classic elements of this beloved Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This resting period allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice without crumbling.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity, but a little extra touch can turn it into a showstopper. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a delicate shimmer, or add fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its buttery richness with a burst of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee, making it a perfect companion for your afternoon break. For a heartier dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not transform this classic into mini cakes using cupcake tins, perfect for gatherings? Alternatively, layer slices with fresh fruit and whipped cream to make a quick but elegant trifle that showcases the buttery crumb in a new light.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist and fresh for up to three days. This way, your Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe stays just as delightful as when it was freshly baked.
Freezing
This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked warmth, briefly microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or warm in a low oven around 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes. This gentle heat brings back the buttery aroma and soft crumb perfect for a comforting bite.
FAQs
Can I substitute the whole milk with other types of milk?
Absolutely! While whole milk provides richness and moisture that are ideal for this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe, you can use buttermilk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just remember the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
What can I do if I don’t have unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty cake. The sweetness and buttery flavor remain deliciously intact either way.
Is it necessary to cream the butter and sugar? Can I mix everything together instead?
Creaming the butter and sugar is a key step that introduces air, resulting in a light, fluffy texture. While you can mix all ingredients at once, the cake may turn out denser and less tender than this traditional Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe deserves.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain cake structure.
What frosting pairs best with Old Fashioned Butter Cake?
This cake shines on its own, but if you want to add frosting, a classic buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements the buttery flavor excellently without overwhelming its delicate crumb.
Final Thoughts
Recreating this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe in your kitchen is a wonderful way to connect with classic baking traditions. Its simplicity, buttery depth, and tender crumb make it a favorite for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon see why this recipe is truly timeless and cherished in so many homes.
Print
Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is a classic, moist, and tender cake featuring a rich buttery flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it combines simple pantry staples into a delightful dessert with a soft crumb, baked to golden perfection in your oven.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square cake pan or a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until fully combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate properly. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious homemade butter cake!
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and a lighter texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients to avoid a tough cake.
- Use whole milk for a richer flavor and moist crumb; low-fat milk can be substituted but may alter texture slightly.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for about a week.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra special touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
