Butter cake is the ultimate comfort dessert—rich, moist, and incredibly satisfying. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, this classic treat never disappoints.

I still remember the first time I baked a butter cake with my grandmother. The warm, buttery aroma filled the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to wait for it to cool before sneaking a bite. It’s a timeless recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Why You'll Love This Butter Cake

Get ready to fall in love with a cake that’s as simple as it is spectacular. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery.

First, this butter cake is incredibly soft and tender, thanks to the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and eggs. Every bite melts in your mouth with a rich, buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.

It’s also a foolproof recipe. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this cake comes together effortlessly. A few basic mixing steps, and you’ll have a batter ready for the oven in minutes.

Another great thing? It’s versatile. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dressed up with a simple glaze or fresh fruit. It’s the perfect base for layering with frosting or turning into a trifle.

And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor. If you grew up eating homemade butter cake, this recipe will transport you straight back to childhood with its familiar, comforting taste.

Ingredients Notes

A great butter cake starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an important role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Butter is the star of the show. For the richest taste, use unsalted butter and make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing. This ensures it creams beautifully with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy texture.

Sugar gives the cake its signature sweetness and also helps with moisture retention. Granulated sugar is ideal, but for a slightly deeper flavor, you can swap in a bit of brown sugar.

Eggs add structure and richness. Use large eggs at room temperature to help them incorporate smoothly into the batter, preventing any curdling.

All-purpose flour provides the perfect balance of structure and tenderness. For a lighter crumb, you can substitute part of it with cake flour, but all-purpose works perfectly on its own.

Baking powder ensures the cake rises properly, creating a soft, airy texture. Make sure your baking powder is fresh—old baking powder can lead to a dense cake.

Milk adds moisture and creates a silky batter. Whole milk works best, but you can substitute it with buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor and extra tenderness.

A stand mixer or hand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier, ensuring a light and fluffy cake. If mixing by hand, be prepared for a bit of an arm workout!

How To Make This Butter Cake

Making this butter cake is as easy as mixing, baking, and enjoying. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch round or square cake pan. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, so beat it for at least 3-4 minutes until pale in color.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. If the mixture looks slightly curdled, don’t worry—it will come together once the dry ingredients are added.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, with a slightly domed shape.

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Storage Options

This butter cake stays wonderfully fresh for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

For short-term storage, keep the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, store it in the fridge to prevent it from drying out.

To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

If reheating, a quick 10-second microwave zap will bring back its soft, buttery texture. For a crispier exterior, pop a slice in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about butter cake is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences.

For a citrusy twist, add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter. The bright flavors balance beautifully with the richness of the butter.

Want a little crunch? Fold in a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for added texture and a nutty depth of flavor.

For a chocolate variation, swap out a quarter cup of flour for unsweetened cocoa powder. You’ll get a deliciously rich, buttery chocolate cake that pairs perfectly with a dusting of powdered sugar.

If you love spices, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. This gives the cake a warm, cozy flavor, perfect for pairing with a cup of tea.

Dairy-free? Substitute the butter with a high-quality vegan butter and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this butter cake is a simple, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it again and again!