Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe from My Baking Addiction brings back the warm flavor of home baking that reminds me of childhood kitchens filled with sweet buttery aroma.
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe turns out soft, golden, and rich in taste, a true comfort dessert that melts in the mouth.
I have made this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe several times and every time it gives the same beautiful texture and balanced sweetness.
I followed the bakery style once, but later added my own touch by using fresh cream and a hint of vanilla bean. Today I will show up and share my step-by-step way to make this beloved butter cake.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
You’ll love this Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe because it captures the true taste of homemade baking tender crumb, buttery flavor, and a golden top that smells like pure comfort.
The texture stays soft and moist without being heavy, making it wonderful for everyday desserts or special gatherings. The batter comes together easily using simple ingredients found in any kitchen.
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe tastes just as good on its own as it does with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. One slice brings that warm, nostalgic feeling of classic home baking.
How To Prepare Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Calories: 295 kcal
Cuisine: American
Yield: 10 servings
Kitchen Utensils
Before we dive into the Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe, let’s make sure you have the right tools to create this delicious butter cake:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter or fine strainer
- 8-inch cake pan (greased and floured)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup (230g) softened butter
- 1 to 1½ cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 to 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan and Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature.
Step 2 – Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. This step usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer. The creaming process gives the cake its tender crumb.
Step 3 – Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly blended.
Step 4 – Mix Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures even mixing and removes any lumps.
Step 5 – Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture alternately with the milk start and end with the flour. Mix gently after each addition, just until combined. Does not overbeat, as it can make the cake dense instead of tender.
Step 6 – Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Special Note
This old-fashioned butter cake is delicious served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a simple vanilla frosting. For a richer flavor, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream. It keeps well at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5.
Serving Ideas For Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Try serving the Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe as a layered treat with seasonal fruit and cream. Slice the cake in half horizontally, spread a layer of sweetened whipped cream or custard in between, and add fresh strawberries, blueberries, or peaches.
Replace the top layer, dust with powdered sugar, and chill slightly before serving. You can also toast leftover slices in a skillet with a little butter and enjoy them warm for breakfast alongside honey or jam.
For a cozy evening dessert, serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe with a dollop of warm vanilla sauce or a spoonful of lemon curd for a lovely tangy contrast.
Health Benefits
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is mainly an indulgent treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits from its simple, wholesome ingredients. Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like A and E, which support eye health and skin.
Eggs contribute protein and essential nutrients such as choline, important for brain function. Milk adds calcium and vitamin D, which are key for strong bones. The flour supplies carbohydrates for energy.
Although it’s a richer dessert best enjoyed in moderation, this classic cake can be part of a balanced diet when paired with fresh fruit or enjoyed occasionally as a comforting homemade delight.
Expert Tips To Make Your Old Fashioned Butter Cake Even Better
1. Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps them blend together smoothly, resulting in a more even batter and a lighter cake texture.
2. When adding the flour mixture, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake due to the development of gluten.
3. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together to ensure they are evenly distributed and free of lumps. This ensures your cake rises evenly.
4. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
5. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This helps prevent it from breaking apart and gives the flavors time to set.
Storage Of Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe keeps well when stored properly. Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
At room temperature, it will stay fresh for about 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, bringing it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
If you want to store it even longer, freeze the cake either whole or in slices wrapped well in plastic and foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, ready to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
This delicious and amazing Old Fashioned Butter Cake recipe is loved by everyone who tries it. I’ve made it many times for gatherings and always enjoyed the wonderful results.
The simple ingredients and easy method make it perfect for sharing with family and friends. Every time I bake this cake, it brings joy and warm memories to the table.
I’m excited to share my easy approach, hoping it inspires you to try making this classic recipe yourself and experience the comforting taste of homemade baking.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
Banana Brown Butter Cake – Step-by-Step Guide
Keto Cheese Bread Recipe – A Low-Carb Delight
Banana Bread Cookie Recipe | Easy Treat
Peanut Butter Cake Pops – Sweet & Creamy
Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake – Luxurious Dessert
Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter or fine strainer
- 8-inch cake pan (greased and floured)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup 230g softened butter
- 1 to 1½ cups granulated sugar adjust to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 to 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan and Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature.
Step 2 – Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. This step usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer. The creaming process gives the cake its tender crumb.
Step 3 – Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly blended.
Step 4 – Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures even mixing and removes any lumps.
Step 5 – Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture alternately with the milk start and end with the flour. Mix gently after each addition, just until combined. Does not overbeat, as it can make the cake dense instead of tender.
Step 6 – Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.