There's something truly magical about the aroma of a freshly baked butter cake filling the kitchen. The golden crust, the soft and tender crumb, and the rich buttery flavor make this classic dessert an all-time favorite for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or a simple indulgence.

I remember baking my first butter cake as a child with my grandmother, who always emphasized the importance of using real butter for the best flavor. Over the years, this recipe has become a staple in my home, loved by both kids and adults alike. If you're looking for a fail-proof, delightfully moist, and flavorful cake, this butter cake recipe is just what you need.
Why You'll Love This Butter Cake
Get ready to fall in love with a cake that is as easy to make as it is delicious. Here’s why this butter cake will become your new favorite bake:
First, it's incredibly simple and beginner-friendly. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a homemade cake that rivals bakery-quality treats.
Next, the rich buttery flavor shines through in every bite. Thanks to a generous amount of high-quality butter, this cake is moist, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.
It's also versatile. Serve it plain, dust it with powdered sugar, or top it with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an elegant dessert. You can even turn it into a layered cake with frosting!
Lastly, this cake stays moist and fresh for days. Unlike some cakes that dry out quickly, the balanced ratio of butter, eggs, and milk keeps it tender and soft.
Ingredients Notes

The secret to a perfect butter cake lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Here’s what makes this recipe shine:
Butter – The star of the show! Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. Let it soften at room temperature before creaming.
Sugar – Regular granulated sugar works best to create a light and airy texture while complementing the buttery richness.
Eggs – These provide structure and richness to the cake. Use room-temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
Flour – All-purpose flour gives the cake its structure. If you want a finer crumb, you can substitute part of it with cake flour.
Milk – Whole milk is ideal for achieving a moist texture. Some variations use buttermilk, which adds a slight tang and enhances tenderness.
You'll also need baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract to round out the flavors and help the cake rise perfectly.
How To Make This Butter Cake

Baking a perfect butter cake is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a flawless result.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a cake pan with butter and a dusting of flour. This prevents sticking and ensures an even bake.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, giving the cake a soft and tender texture.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps emulsify the mixture and ensures a smooth, uniform batter.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. This technique prevents overmixing and keeps the cake light.
Once the batter is smooth, pour it into the prepared pan and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Storage Options
To keep your butter cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The butter helps maintain its moisture, so it won’t dry out quickly.
If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, making sure it's wrapped tightly to prevent drying.
For long-term storage, freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this butter cake is its adaptability! Here are a few ways you can customize it:
Citrus Twist – Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
Chocolate Butter Cake – Mix in two tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate variation.
Nutty Addition – Fold in chopped almonds or walnuts for extra texture and crunch.
Spiced Butter Cake – Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.
Dairy-Free Version – Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
No matter how you customize it, this butter cake is sure to be a hit. Experiment and find your perfect version!
PrintButter Cake Recipe
This butter cake recipe is rich, moist, and full of buttery goodness. Made with simple pantry staples, it's perfect for birthdays, tea time, or any special occasion. Serve it plain or with frosting for an irresistible treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
- Stir in vanilla extract until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra moisture, add 2 tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.
- Serve with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or your favorite frosting.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
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