Wilton Butter Cake is a classic, rich, and tender cake that has delighted bakers and dessert lovers for generations. The cake is known for its smooth, buttery texture and lightly sweet flavor, enhanced with hints of vanilla and almond essence.
The specialty of Wilton Butter Cake lies in its soft crumb and the ability to hold frosting beautifully, making it a favorite for layered cakes and celebrations.
Additions like high-quality buttercream frosting elevate the cake, adding creamy richness and decorative appeal.
Rooted in American baking traditions, this cake has a history of being a reliable, elegant choice for gatherings and special moments. I will now show step-by-step how to create this Wilton Butter Cake.
Why We Love This Recipe
Wilton Butter Cake is loved for its tender, moist texture and rich buttery flavor that feels comforting in every bite. The subtle almond and vanilla notes enhance the natural sweetness without being heavy.
Its structure makes it excellent for frosting, layering, and decorating, allowing creativity in presentation. This recipe is reliable, producing consistent results whether for everyday treats or special occasions.
Additions like fruit, chocolate, or flavored creams elevate the cake while keeping its classic charm. Each slice delivers warmth, indulgence, and simple homemade joy.
How To Prepare Wilton Butter Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: 10 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Cooling rack
- Cake knife or serrated knife
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon almond flavoring
- 5 large eggs
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 ½ cups buttercream frosting
How To Make Wilton Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease two 9-inch round cake pans. You can either lightly dust them with flour or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature butter together with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the almond flavoring and vanilla extract, mixing just until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. The goal is to achieve a smooth, uniform mixture with no streaks.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine with Wet
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined over mixing can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, and then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread a layer of buttercream frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Decorate as you like, slice, and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts Of Wilton Butter Cake
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 160 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Wilton Butter Cake at room temperature to fully enjoy the soft, buttery texture. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
A drizzle of fruit coulis, caramel sauce, or a light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
This cake can also be decorated with edible flowers or chocolate shavings for festive occasions. Cut into squares or layers for gatherings, making each serving visually appealing and delicious.
Expert Baking Tips
1. Beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake a light, tender texture.
2. When mixing flour and milk into the batter, add them alternately in portions. This prevents over mixing and keeps the cake soft.
3. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature. Too hot can brown the cake too quickly; too low can make it dense.
4. Eggs at room temperature blend more easily into the batter, creating a smooth, uniform mixture that rises evenly.
5. Allow the cake layers to cool fully on a wire rack. Frosting warm cake can cause it to melt and slide, ruining the finish.
Health Benefits
Wilton Butter Cake is primarily an indulgent treat, but it does offer some small nutritional benefits. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and D.
Milk contributes calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health. Almond flavoring, though used in small amounts, contains trace nutrients and antioxidants. Using real butter adds fat-soluble vitamins like A, which supports vision and immunity.
Adding fruit or nuts as variations can increase fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, giving the cake a slightly more nutritious profile while still remaining a delicious dessert.
Make Wilton Butter Cake More Delicious
➤ Coffee Infusion: Brush a light coffee or espresso syrup onto the cake layers for a subtle mocha flavor that complements the buttercream.
➤ Coconut: Mix shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle on the frosting for a tropical twist and added texture.
➤ Cream Filling: Add a layer of pastry cream, custard, or mascarpone cream between layers for extra creaminess.
➤ Caramelized Fruit Topping: Top the cake with lightly caramelized apples, pears, or peaches for a rich, gourmet flavor.
➤ Liqueur Soak: Lightly brush the cake with a flavored liqueur like amaretto, rum, or Grand Marnier to deepen the taste and aroma.
How To Store Wilton Butter Cake
To keep Wilton Butter Cake fresh, store it properly depending on how long you plan to keep it. For short-term storage, cover the cake with a cake dome or airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, wrap the cooled, unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Frosted cake should be kept in the refrigerator, covered lightly with a cake keeper or plastic wrap, for up to 4–5 days.
For extended storage, freeze unfrosted or frosted cake layers in airtight containers for up to 2 months, thawing at room temperature before serving.
(FAQs) About The Wilton Butter Cake Recipe
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frosting can also be made ahead and refrigerated—just let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Can I substitute almond extract if I don’t have it?
If you don’t have almond extract or prefer not to use it, simply increase the vanilla extract slightly. The almond adds a subtle depth, but the cake is still delicious without it.
What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk is ideal for a rich, moist texture, but 2% milk can also be used. Avoid skim milk, as it may affect the cake’s richness and moisture.
How should I store the frosted cake?
The frosted cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but bring it to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?
Yes, this batter works well for cupcakes. Fill liners about 2/3 full and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
I hope this Wilton Butter Cake becomes as meaningful to you as it has to me. Baking it brought more than just a delicious dessert to the table it brought comfort, connection, and joy.
Sharing Wilton Butter Cake with loved ones made the time in the kitchen feel less like work and more like a celebration of simple pleasures.
It’s these little rituals, done with care, that leave lasting memories. I’ll return to this Wilton Butter Cake again, not just for the taste, but for the happiness it brings to those I share it with.
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Wilton Butter Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Cooling rack
- Cake knife or serrated knife
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter at room temperature
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon almond flavoring
- 5 large eggs
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 ½ cups buttercream frosting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease two 9-inch round cake pans. You can either lightly dust them with flour or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature butter together with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the almond flavoring and vanilla extract, mixing just until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. The goal is to achieve a smooth, uniform mixture with no streaks.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine with Wet
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined over mixing can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, and then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
- Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread a layer of buttercream frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Decorate as you like, slice, and enjoy.