Classic Butter Cake

Classic Butter Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition. Do not overmix.
   • Add the vanilla extract and mix until just incorporated.
6. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve:
   • Once cooled, you can frost the cake with your favorite frosting, dust it with powdered sugar, or serve it plain. This cake pairs well with fresh fruit and whipped cream.

Enjoy this classic butter cake as a delightful dessert or with a cup of tea or coffee. Its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb make it a perfect treat for any occasion.