Butter cake, with its rich, buttery flavor and moist, tender crumb, is a timeless dessert that has charmed countless palates around the world. Its simplicity is its greatest strength, allowing the pure essence of butter, sugar, and flour to shine through. This Ultimate Butter Cake Recipe not only promises an indulgent treat but also provides a delightful baking experience for both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether you're seeking to master a classic baking staple or looking for a new dessert to impress at your next gathering, this recipe will guide you through the art of creating the perfect butter cake.
Why Choose Butter Cake?
Butter cake stands out for its:
- Richness: The high butter content imparts a luxurious taste.
- Versatility: Perfect for layering with creams, fruits, or as is.
- Ease of Preparation: Unlike many other desserts, it requires minimal ingredients and steps.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Butter Cake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Butter (softened) | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
Note: Always use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation and cake texture.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder to ensure no lumps.
📝 Note: Sifting helps to aerate the flour, making for a lighter cake.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take up to 5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter-sugar mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
📝 Note: The alternation of dry and wet ingredients helps to evenly distribute the ingredients and prevents overmixing.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking Success
- Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is soft but not melted. A cool room temperature butter works best for creaming.
- Cake Flour Substitution: For an even lighter texture, replace 1⁄4 cup of all-purpose flour with cornstarch.
- Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary; know your oven’s true temperature by using an oven thermometer.
Serving Suggestions
Your butter cake can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Plain: A sprinkle of powdered sugar can be all you need.
- Layered: Create an elegant layered cake with whipped cream or your favorite frosting.
- With Fruit: Serve slices with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and seasonal berries.
In summary, this ultimate butter cake recipe brings together the comforting simplicity of traditional baking with the rich, buttery taste that everyone loves. With this guide, you're equipped to bake a cake that not only looks beautiful but also tastes divine. Remember, the secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and the gentle care in preparation. Happy baking!
Can I make this butter cake ahead of time?
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Yes, you can bake the cake in advance. It keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and refrigerate or freeze.
What if I don’t have a 9-inch round cake pan?
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You can use a different size or shape pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly. A 8x8 or 9x13 inch pan can be used; just monitor the cake closely to avoid over or under baking.
Can I substitute margarine for butter in this recipe?
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While margarine can be used, the taste and texture will be different. Butter is preferred for its rich flavor and contribution to the cake’s structure.
