Classic Vanilla Butter Cake Recipe
This easy vanilla butter cake is a dependable, bakery-style option for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple weekend dessert. It bakes up soft and tender, with a rich buttery flavor and a clean vanilla finish.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preheat and prepare the pan
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour either one 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. -
Cream butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks pale, light, and fluffy. -
Add eggs and vanilla
Mix in the eggs one at a time, fully blending after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. -
Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. -
Combine wet and dry (alternate with milk)
Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in stages, alternating with the milk. Start with dry ingredients and finish with dry ingredients. Mix only until the batter is just combined to keep the cake tender. -
Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. -
Cool and serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Enjoy.
