An Old Fashioned Butter Cake is a timeless classic that brings back the nostalgia of homemade desserts. With its buttery, tender crumb and rich flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether itβs a family gathering or a simple treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Old Fashioned Butter Cake. Additionally, weβll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Old Fashioned Butter Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- Prepare Pans: Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cream the Butter
- Cream Butter: In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add Milk and Vanilla: Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract to the creamed butter, mixing until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Add Eggs
- Beat in Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve: Once cooled, frost the cake with your favorite frosting or enjoy it plain. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
- Do Not Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour to avoid a dense cake.
Variations
- Lemon Butter Cake: Add the zest of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Chocolate Butter Cake: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate version of this classic cake.
- Nutty Butter Cake: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. Frost it just before serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q4: What can I serve with Old Fashioned Butter Cake?
A: This cake pairs well with a variety of frostings such as buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or chocolate ganache. Itβs also delicious served with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.
Q5: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter crumb or whole wheat flour for a denser texture.
An Old Fashioned Butter Cake is a delightful and versatile dessert thatβs perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb and rich, buttery flavor, itβs sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying cake that everyone will love. Serve this delightful cake with your favorite frosting or accompaniments for a complete and indulgent treat!
Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dessert, a special treat for guests, or a delightful addition to any gathering, this Old Fashioned Butter Cake recipe is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
