Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! You can use salted butter, just omit the extra salt from the recipe. It'll be just as yummy.

Any tips for making the butter cake even more flavorful?

For a richer flavor, brown the butter before adding it to the batter. Let it cool slightly before mixing it in – this adds a nutty depth that's just divine!

How should I store this butter cake?

I like to keep mine covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheating it slightly brings back that fresh-baked goodness.

Can I substitute the vanilla extract with another flavor?

Sure, you can experiment with different extracts like almond, lemon, or even a hint of maple for a different twist.

Can I make this gluten-free?

I haven't tried it myself, but I suspect it could work! The texture might be a little different but should still be delicious.

golden brown butter cake on a plate, warm and inviting

Pastries

Name: Simple and Sensational Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Baking
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted butter; 2 cups Granulated sugar; 4 Large eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 3 cups All-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Milk

simple and sensational butter cake

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

24 Jul 2025

Picture this: a slice of golden, melt-in-your-mouth butter cake, the kind that evokes childhood memories and cozy afternoons. This isn't just any cake; it's a celebration of simple ingredients, transformed into a symphony of flavor and texture. This butter cake recipe is a reminder that the best things in life are often the easiest to make. I remember my grandma used to bake this for every family gathering, and the smell alone was enough to make everyone smile. I've tweaked her recipe slightly over the years, but the heart of it remains the same: pure, unadulterated buttery goodness. This cake is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as is with a dusting of powdered sugar, or dress it up with your favorite frosting and toppings. It's perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply a sweet treat on a rainy day.

The secret to a truly exceptional butter cake lies in the quality of the ingredients and the creaming of the butter and sugar. Using high-quality butter makes all the difference in the world. It is best to ensure the butter is at room temperature, and creaming it with the sugar until light and fluffy incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a tender, moist cake. The alternating addition of dry and wet ingredients is key to preventing gluten development, which can lead to a tough cake. Be gentle with the batter and mix only until just combined. Overmixing is a common mistake that can ruin the texture of the cake.

Required Equipments

9x13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper (optional)

Simple and Sensational Butter Cake: Frequently Asked Questions

Simple and Sensational Butter Cake

Indulge in the simple pleasure of a classic butter cake! This recipe delivers a moist, tender, and flavorful cake that's perfect for any occasion. A crowd-pleasing treat made with basic ingredients!

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 12 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

📖 Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial! Make sure your oven is truly at the correct temperature for even baking. Grab a 9x13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can also line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang, for easy removal. This is especially helpful if you plan to frost the cake.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter (softened, but not melted!) and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Don't rush this step – it's important for incorporating air into the batter. Scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Watch out for shell fragments! Nobody wants crunchy surprises in their cake.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step is important to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients (flour, milk, flour). Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Try to avoid creating air pockets. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any trapped air.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it! Baking times can vary depending on your oven. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it loosely with foil.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the urge to cut into it while it's still warm... though I know it's tempting! Serve as is, or dust with powdered sugar or your favorite frosting. A dollop of whipped cream and some fresh berries are also delightful additions.