Simple Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I can’t get enough of this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake! It’s incredibly moist, fluffy, and bursting with rich vanilla flavor that makes every bite a delight. I often whip this up for family gatherings or casual get-togethers because it’s so straightforward to make. What I love most is how it pairs beautifully with both fresh fruits and whipped cream—or simply enjoyed on its own. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:33:36.665Z

When I first attempted this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake, I was surprised by how effortlessly everything came together. I used high-quality vanilla extract, which really elevated the flavors. During the mixing process, I made sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly, allowing for that light and airy texture that everyone loves in a cake. This small step can make a significant difference in the final result.

Another tip I discovered is to let the cake cool completely before frosting it. It ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and creates a beautiful finish on the cake. Plus, if you want to make it even more exciting, consider adding a layer of fruit jam between the cake layers or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top!

Why You'll Love This Cake
A delightful vanilla flavor that shines through every bite
Versatile enough to pair with various toppings or enjoyed plain
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for any occasion

Understanding Ingredients

The star of this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake is undeniably the vanilla extract, and using pure extract versus imitation can greatly affect the flavor. Always opt for high-quality vanilla extract for a rich taste. If you're ever in a pinch, you can substitute with vanilla bean paste or even scrape the seeds from a vanilla pod for an intensified flavor experience. Remember, the ingredient's quality impacts the overall sensory profile of your cake.

Butter is another crucial ingredient; it provides moisture and richness. Make sure it’s softened properly, as this makes it easier to cream with the sugar, resulting in a light and airy texture. Don’t rush the process—ensure your butter is at room temperature, which also helps avoid a dense cake. If you're in a hurry, you can cut your butter into smaller chunks and microwave it on low for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring it’s soft but not melted.

Perfecting Cake Texture

Achieving the perfect texture can sometimes be a challenge, but a few tips can help. Be cautious not to overmix your batter once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Also, consider sifting your flour to aerate it before measuring—this extra step can yield a lighter cake in the end.

The baking time mentioned is a general guideline, so you should always watch for visual cues. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, but also look for a slight golden-brown color on the top and edges. If the cake starts to darken too quickly, you can tent it with foil partway through baking to prevent burning while ensuring it bakes through.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavor

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 15 minutes, then remove them from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.

Frost and Serve

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost with your favorite icing and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract into the batter. This cake also freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time!

Storage Tips

To keep your Simple Vanilla Butter Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but allow it to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture. If you’re planning to frost the cake, it’s best to store it in the fridge to maintain the integrity of the frosting.

Should you want to make this cake ahead of time, you can freeze the baked and cooled layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost as desired. This method also helps retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. You can serve it plain, or elevate it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple buttercream frosting. I personally love pairing it with fresh strawberries or raspberries to balance the sweetness, creating an inviting presentation and palette. A whipped cream topping adds an airy contrast that perfectly complements the dense cake texture.

For those looking to experiment, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for a twist on the classic vanilla flavor. Similarly, you can fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. Feel free to get creative with toppings: a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a layer of fruit compote can take this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake to new heights!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake and freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if you're looking for a non-dairy version.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I add chocolate chips or fruit?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, berries, or nuts for added flavor and texture.