Simple Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Dessert Magic

When I want to make a comforting dessert, this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake is always my go-to. Its rich vanilla flavor and moist texture make it the perfect base for any celebration or afternoon tea. I love how straightforward it is to whip up, and I often have the ingredients on hand. Adding a luscious glaze or fresh fruit on top elevates this cake further while keeping it remarkably simple. It’s a family favorite that never fails to impress, and it’s incredibly versatile too.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:09:36.592Z

As I baked this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake, I remembered all the times I made it for friends and family. The aroma of vanilla filling the kitchen brings back such warm memories. I used high-quality vanilla extract to really enhance the flavor, which makes a significant difference. The texture is so tender, and the crust, slightly golden. It’s a simple recipe that allows me to focus on presentation, whether it's a glaze or fresh berries.

What I particularly enjoy is how adaptable this cake is; I’ve added lemon zest or swapped vanilla for almond extract on occasion, which always adds a unique spin and excites the palate. I find that proper creaming of the butter and sugar leads to a wonderfully airy cake, so don’t skip that step! Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake will never disappoint.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich buttery flavor enhanced by vanilla extract
Perfectly moist and tender crumb, melting in your mouth
Versatile base for frostings, fruits, or jams

The Magic of Butter and Vanilla

The combination of unsalted butter and high-quality vanilla extract is what truly elevates this Simple Vanilla Butter Cake. The butter contributes to the cake's rich, moist texture while enhancing the overall flavor profile. Be sure to soften the butter adequately before creaming; this step ensures a light and airy batter. Using room-temperature ingredients can make a significant difference in achieving that desired structure and crumb.

Vanilla extract is the star of the show in this recipe. Opt for pure vanilla extract over artificial varieties for a more natural flavor. Vanilla not only adds sweetness but also rounds out the cake's taste, creating depth. If you want to experiment, try adding vanilla bean seeds for those lovely specks that visually enhance your cake, creating an elegant presentation.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Properly preparing your cake pans is crucial for a successful bake. Greasing and flouring both the bottom and sides of the pans helps prevent sticking, allowing for a flawless release. I recommend using parchment paper for added assurance; simply cut it to fit the bottom of your pans. This such method not only helps with release but also makes cleanup easier.

Baking times can vary based on your oven’s calibration, so it’s wise to start checking for doneness a few minutes early. When the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, your cakes are likely ready. If the cakes dome slightly in the center, it’s a sign that they may have too much batter. Flatten the tops gently with a spatula after removal from the oven, or reduce the amount of batter per pan slightly next time.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your cake:

For the Simple Vanilla Butter Cake

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

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're good to start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your cake:

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, frost with your favorite icing or serve plain with a dusting of powdered sugar. Add fresh fruits or a glaze for extra flavor.

Now that you’ve made your cake, enjoy it with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, experiment by adding lemon zest or swapping vanilla for almond extract. Make sure to properly cream the butter and sugar for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Simple Vanilla Butter Cake serves as a blank canvas for creativity. Consider layering it with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a beautiful summer dessert. Seasonal berries like strawberries and blueberries not only taste amazing but also provide a pop of color. If you fancy a bit of decadence, pair it with a rich chocolate ganache or a silky buttercream frosting for a celebratory cake.

For a more rustic presentation, a simple dusting of powdered sugar can go a long way. It pairs beautifully with the cake's sweetness and adds a touch of elegance. Additionally, serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms the cake into a delightful sundae-style treat perfect for gatherings.

Make-Ahead Tips

Making this cake in advance is a great time-saver. Once baked and cooled completely, wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, freeze the un-frosted cakes by wrapping them in foil and placing them in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready at a moment's notice.

If you're looking to scale the recipe, it's easy to do so. Doubling the ingredients will yield a larger cake suitable for special occasions. Just remember to adjust your baking times as needed, checking for doneness similar to the standard recipe. You can also bake the batter in different shapes—think cupcakes or a sheet cake—which can cut down on serving time at parties.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

→ How can I store the cake?

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as egg substitutes in this recipe.