Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butter Cake Recipe You Need to Try Today!
Craving a soft, rich dessert? This butter cake recipe delivers irresistible flavor with easy tips for perfect results. Try this homemade classic today!
Introduction
There's something truly comforting about a slice of butter cake. Its tender crumb and rich flavor make it a timeless favorite in many households. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this melt-in-your-mouth butter cake is sure to delight. I love how its simplicity allows the buttery goodness to shine through, making it a go-to recipe in my baking repertoire. Plus, with a total time of just about an hour, you can enjoy this classic dessert without much fuss.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Provides the rich, buttery flavor that defines this cake.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3¼ cups cake flour: Offers a fine texture and lightness to the cake.
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder: Provides leavening for a light and fluffy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1¼ cups whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
For the Glaze:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze set.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the glaze and contributes to its shine.
- ¼ cup water: Dissolves the sugar and helps achieve the right consistency.
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with a warm, aromatic flavor.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-12 cup Bundt pan, ensuring all crevices are well-coated.
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: With the mixer on low, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
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Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
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Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Prepare the Glaze: While the cake is baking, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Invert the cake onto a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Pour the warm glaze evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in and create a glossy finish.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade butter cake!
Tips & Tricks
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
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Don't Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps prevent a dense cake.
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Check for Doneness Early: Oven temperatures can vary; start checking the cake at the 55-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
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Enhance the Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the glaze for a delightful twist.
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Make It a Layer Cake: Divide the batter between two 9-inch round cake pans and bake for about 25-30 minutes for a classic layer cake.
Serving Suggestions
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Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a tart contrast to the sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the cake's richness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing a warm slice with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience.
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Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
Storage & Reheating
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Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 10 minutes.
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**Free