Fluffy Butter Cake Recipe

A fluffy butter cake is a timeless classic that combines rich buttery flavor with a light, airy texture. Perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or simply as a delightful treat with coffee, this cake delivers moistness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Moist Texture – The perfect balance of butter and leavening agents ensures a fluffy and tender crumb.
• Rich, Buttery Flavor – A generous amount of butter gives this cake its signature taste.
• Simple and Versatile – Can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with frosting, whipped cream, or fruit.
• Easy to Make – Uses basic pantry ingredients and requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Milk

7. Reduce the mixer speed to low and alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour.
8. Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the cake tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

9. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

11. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Frost or serve as desired.

Variations

• Lemon Butter Cake – Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest.
• Chocolate Butter Cake – Replace ¼ cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
• Nutty Twist – Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Allow to come to room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my butter cake extra fluffy?

Use room temperature ingredients, properly cream the butter and sugar, and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt to ¼ teaspoon.

Why did my cake turn out dense?

Overmixing, incorrect measurements, or old baking powder can lead to a dense cake.

Can I substitute buttermilk for regular milk?

Yes! Buttermilk enhances moisture and adds a slight tang. Reduce baking powder to 2 teaspoons and add ½ teaspoon baking soda.

What’s the best frosting for butter cake?

Classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze all work well.

Can I make this cake in a bundt pan?

Yes, but the bake time may increase to 40-45 minutes.

How do I keep my cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the pan thoroughly or use parchment paper for easy release.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute, but results may vary slightly.

What’s the best way to add flavors like almond or coconut?

Replace 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract for a flavor twist.

How do I store leftover frosting?

Keep frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

This fluffy butter cake is a delightful, buttery treat perfect for any occasion. Whether served plain, frosted, or layered with fruit and cream, it never fails to impress. Enjoy baking this classic cake and share it with family and friends!

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