Butter Cake
Indulge in the rich, buttery flavor of butter cake, a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. With its moist texture and golden crust, this cake is an excellent choice for celebrations or just a cozy afternoon treat. Easy to make with simple ingredients, butter cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the delightful world of baking this scrumptious cake!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 10 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) of butter cake contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. This nutritional information is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add 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 cake pan and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Additionally, substitute almond milk for regular milk for a nutty flavor or use gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Butter cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a side of lemon curd for extra zing.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw and warm it in the oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense cake.
– Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
– Don’t open the oven door during baking; it can cause the cake to collapse.
– Use a toothpick to check for doneness; underbaking can lead to a soggy center.
– Always measure flour correctly to avoid a dry texture.
Helpful Tips
– For a richer flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter.
– Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, for a unique twist.
– Ensure your oven is properly calibrated for even baking.
– Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may slightly alter the flavor. Adjust the added salt in the recipe accordingly.
How can I make the cake more moist?
Adding a bit of sour cream or yogurt can enhance the moisture of the cake without changing the flavor too much.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Fold in about a cup of chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate butter cake variation.
What’s the best way to frost butter cake?
A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements butter cake beautifully, adding both flavor and elegance.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, butter cake can be made a day ahead. Just store it properly and frost it closer to serving time to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Butter cake is a delightful treat that stands the test of time, perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a favorite among cake lovers. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Happy baking!
Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 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 cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.