Old Fashioned Butter Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about an Old Fashioned Butter Cake. It’s the kind of cake that takes you back to simpler times – soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet. Picture a moist, golden crumb that just melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the cake you remember from grandma’s kitchen, the one that makes you feel all warm and cozy inside.

This cake is a true classic, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on its own with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, or dress it up with your favorite frosting or fresh fruit. Trust me, it’s a cake that you’ll want to make again and again, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to pass down for generations.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Butter Cake

Moist and Tender: The texture is light, fluffy, and perfectly moist. This cake stays soft for days, making it the perfect dessert to bake ahead.

Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples, this cake doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. It’s proof that the best things in life are often the simplest.

Versatile: You can serve this cake on its own or top it with anything from a dusting of powdered sugar to a rich frosting. It’s just as perfect for a casual dessert as it is for a celebration.

Nostalgic: There’s something about this cake that brings back sweet memories. It has that comforting, homemade touch that makes you feel like you’re sitting at a family table, sharing a slice with loved ones.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, birthday, or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is always a hit.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this delightful butter cake, all of which you likely already have on hand!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

For the Cake

The ingredients for the cake itself are simple but magical in creating that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

For the Optional Glaze or Frosting

While the cake is perfect on its own, a glaze or frosting can take it to the next level if you’re looking to add a little extra flair.

Instructions

Ready to get baking? This cake is super easy to make, and I promise, you’ll be enjoying a slice before you know it.

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing and flouring your cake pan. You want to make sure the cake slides right out once it’s done baking!

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to creating that soft, tender crumb we all love. Be patient and let the mixture get nice and airy!

Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, and you’ll start to notice that beautiful cake batter forming.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can enjoy it plain or top it with your favorite frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional breakdown for a slice of this decadent butter cake:

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 37g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 3g

(Note: nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake

This cake is simple enough to be enjoyed as-is, but if you’re looking for some ways to elevate it, here are a few ideas:

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a classic and simple touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar is all you need.

Top with Frosting: If you want a richer dessert, top the cake with a creamy buttercream or cream cheese frosting. A simple vanilla buttercream works perfectly.

Add Fresh Fruit: Pair slices of the cake with fresh berries or even sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.

Serve with Ice Cream: Warm slices of this butter cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Yes, please!

Glaze It: For a little extra sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk over the cake once it cools.

Additional Tips

Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, be sure to mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a denser cake.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything blend more smoothly and ensures a tender crumb.

Test for Doneness: Since every oven is a little different, start checking the cake around 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready to come out.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months if you want to enjoy it later.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this cake in advance?
A1: Absolutely! You can make it a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container, and it’ll stay moist and delicious.

Q2: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A1: While butter gives the best flavor and texture for this cake, margarine can be used as a substitute in a pinch. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still work.

Q3: Can I add other flavorings to this cake?
A3: Yes! You can add citrus zest, almond extract, or even a little cinnamon for a twist on the classic flavor.

Q4: Can I make this cake into cupcakes?
A4: Yes! If you want to make cupcakes, simply divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Q5: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A5: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q6: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A6: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.

Q7: Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
A7: Yes! If you’re in the mood for something extra, fold in some mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist on this classic cake.

Q8: Can I use a different pan size?
A8: You can use a different pan size, but keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake, so check it earlier.

Q9: How can I make this cake more decadent?
A9: Try topping the cake with a rich frosting or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a more indulgent treat.

Q10: Can I make this cake dairy-free?
A10: To make this cake dairy-free, swap the butter for a dairy-free butter substitute and use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk.

Conclusion

There’s just something about an Old Fashioned Butter Cake that never goes out of style. Its soft, buttery texture and simplicity make it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you serve it plain or with a special topping, this cake will surely bring comfort and joy to your table. Bake it up and share a slice with those you love!

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