Butter Cake
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of a classic butter cake. This timeless dessert is soft, moist, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for celebrations or a simple afternoon tea. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a cake that will impress family and friends alike. Get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven with this easy-to-follow recipe that highlights the beauty of simplicity in baking.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 50-60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) of butter cake contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 15g
– Saturated Fat: 9g
– Cholesterol: 80mg
– Sodium: 180mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 52g
– Sugars: 30g
– Protein: 4g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
8. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option. Additionally, almond milk can replace regular milk for a nutty flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Butter cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter instead of softened butter can affect texture.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately will alter the outcome.
- Skipping the flouring of the pan may cause sticking.
- Opening the oven door too early can cause the cake to sink.
Helpful Tips
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for better flavor.
- Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon for unique twists.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
FAQs
What makes a butter cake different from other cakes?
Butter cake is distinguished by its high butter content, which gives it a rich flavor and moist texture. Unlike sponge cakes, it uses a creaming method that incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a denser, yet light cake.
Can I add flavors to my butter cake?
Absolutely! You can add flavors such as lemon zest, cocoa powder, or spices like cinnamon to the batter. Just be cautious not to disrupt the balance of wet and dry ingredients.
How can I tell if my butter cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges will slightly pull away from the pan, and the top should be golden brown.
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, cake flour can be used for a lighter texture. Just replace the all-purpose flour with the same amount of cake flour for a softer cake.
What frosting pairs well with butter cake?
Buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze work well. Fresh fruit toppings or whipped cream also complement the cake beautifully.
Conclusion
Butter cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delightful cake that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
- Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.