If you adore a cake that’s tender, buttery, and absolutely melt-in-your-mouth, then this Soft Butter Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This classic dessert strikes the perfect balance between rich flavor and a light, fluffy texture that feels like a warm hug with every bite. It’s simple enough for anyone to master, yet elegant enough to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy afternoon treat or a special celebration, this Soft Butter Cake Recipe promises a slice of comfort and joy that you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one playing a crucial role in crafting the moist texture, golden color, and luscious flavor of the cake. You can’t rush quality in this recipe because every component counts toward that soft, buttery perfection.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness and adds creamy richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly and helps to create a tender crumb.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature: Eggs add structure and moisture, helping the cake rise beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Gives a warm, aromatic depth that complements the buttery flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s soft texture; for an even lighter crumb, cake flour can be substituted.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that makes the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature: Adds moisture and helps create that silky batter consistency.
How to Make Soft Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure the edges come out clean and beautiful.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is critical because aeration here helps create that signature softness and delicate crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Beating well after each addition builds structure, keeping the cake moist yet airy.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This keeps the leavening even and distributes the salt evenly throughout the batter.
Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture by alternating with the milk—start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could make the cake dense rather than soft.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps set the cake for clean slicing.
How to Serve Soft Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can be charming, but topping your Soft Butter Cake Recipe with dollops of freshly whipped cream and seasonal berries takes it to the next level. The freshness of the fruit perfectly contrasts the buttery richness, creating an irresistible bite.
Side Dishes
Serving this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce makes it an unforgettable dessert experience. For a more casual vibe, a cup of rich coffee or aromatic tea pairs beautifully with every forkful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, cut the cake into small squares and serve them as petite finger foods at a brunch or party. You could also layer slices with jam and cream for a quick trifle-style dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it stays moist and fresh for about 2 to 3 days—perfect if you want to savor a slice or two over a few days.
Freezing
The Soft Butter Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake or individual slices securely in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months without losing its soft texture.
Reheating
To reheat, let the cake thaw at room temperature if frozen. For a warm treat, place slices in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the softness and brings back that just-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
Butter is key to achieving the rich flavor and soft texture in this Soft Butter Cake Recipe, so margarine might change the taste and consistency. It’s best to stick with real unsalted butter for the classic result.
What’s the best way to ensure my cake stays soft?
Using room temperature ingredients and not overmixing the batter are two of the best tricks. Also, avoid overbaking since that can dry out the cake. Keep an eye on the cake starting at 35 minutes and do the toothpick test!
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this butter cake?
Absolutely! You can fold in lemon zest, chocolate chips, or even a handful of berries before baking. Just keep additions moderate to maintain the soft, delicate texture.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Definitely. Its elegant simplicity makes the Soft Butter Cake Recipe a great canvas for decorating and gifting. Dress it up with frosting or fresh fruit, and it’s party-ready.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but should still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Soft Butter Cake Recipe is one of those timeless classic desserts that never goes out of style. Its perfect balance of soft texture and rich buttery flavor creates a little slice of heaven that’s approachable for bakers of all levels. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a staple in your recipe rotation, ready to delight friends and family whenever the mood for something sweet and comforting strikes.
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 characterized by its moist, fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor. Made with simple pantry staples like butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, this cake is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The recipe yields a tender, golden cake that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a light glaze, making it a versatile and timeless treat for all dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is essential for incorporating air, giving the cake a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to distribute the leavening evenly throughout the flour.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing only until combined after each addition to avoid overworking the batter.
- Pour and Smooth Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the batter evenly across the pan.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without any wet batter.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This prevents sogginess and helps the cake set properly.
Notes
- For extra richness and a more tender crumb, substitute cake flour for all-purpose flour.
- This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a light glaze for added flavor and presentation.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture and even mixing.
