Go Back

Soft Butter Cake

Indulge in this heavenly soft butter cake that’s perfect for any occasion! With a few simple ingredients like unsalted butter, sugar, and eggs, this cake comes together easily. The light and fluffy texture is enhanced with a hint of vanilla and optional lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. Bake it to golden perfection, serve it plain or dressed up with icing, and enjoy a slice of bliss. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat!

Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup whole milk, at room temperature

Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.

    Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes.

      Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract (and lemon zest if using) until fully combined.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.

          Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

            Pour the Batter: Gently pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula.

              Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for round pans or 35-40 minutes for the rectangular pan. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                Cool the Cake: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Serve: Once cooled, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar, frost with your favorite icing, or enjoy it plain with a cup of tea.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 |