Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Heavenly Confections

I’ve always had a soft spot for vanilla butter cake—not only is it a classic, but its rich buttery flavor brings back warm memories of family gatherings. Making this cake reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen, where the delightful aroma would fill the air as it baked. This recipe is simple enough for anyone to try, yet it yields a dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying it with a cup of tea or serving it at a birthday party, this cake never fails to impress.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:33:34.371Z

When I first decided to bake a vanilla butter cake, I wanted to ensure it was both light and moist. I experimented with different ratios of butter and sugar, and my secret weapon became the addition of sour cream, which gives the cake that perfect texture. Over time, I discovered that blending the butter and sugar until light and fluffy made a huge difference in the final product!

One of the best things about this cake is its versatility. You can top it with fresh fruit, a rich chocolate ganache, or simply a dusting of powdered sugar for a minimalist dessert. Each time I bake it, I think of adding a unique twist, whether it’s a hint of lemon zest or almond extract, enhancing the traditional flavors. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Classic flavor that evokes nostalgia
Perfectly moist texture every time
Versatile base for any celebration or occasion

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient in your vanilla butter cake can make all the difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. The butter not only adds richness but also contributes to the moistness of the cake. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this ensures it mixes evenly with sugar, creating a light and airy batter. Additionally, the eggs add structure and moisture, so using large eggs at room temperature will give the best results.

Sour cream is another key ingredient in this recipe. It provides both moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the sugar. If you don't have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute, offering similar moisture and acidity. However, avoid using low-fat versions, as this could affect the overall richness of the cake. The use of all-purpose flour provides the foundation, and sifting it can help prevent lumps and ensure an even texture.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Cake

When baking your vanilla butter cake, timing and temperature play crucial roles. Preheat your oven thoroughly to 350°F (175°C) and avoid opening the door frequently during baking. This can cause fluctuations in temperature, leading to uneven rising. The cake should bake for about 40 minutes, but keep an eye on it as ovens can vary. Look for a golden brown top and use the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center and ensure it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter.

If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can tent the cake with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time. Once the baking is complete, cooling your cake in the pan for the recommended 10 minutes is vital; this helps it firm up and makes it easier to transfer. I recommend using a thin spatula to gently loosen the edges before inverting it onto a wire rack. This prevents any sticking that could affect the cake's appearance.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have all your ingredients at room temperature for the best result!

Instructions

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Serving tip: This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating almond extract or citrus zest into your batter!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This vanilla butter cake can easily be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules. After cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn and allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight when you're ready to serve.

If you have leftover cake, consider transforming it into delicious cake pops or trifle. Simply crumble the cake into fine pieces and mix it with frosting to form balls, then dip in chocolate. For a trifle, layer pieces of the cake with whipped cream and fresh fruits in a glass dish for an elegant dessert that showcases your beautiful vanilla butter cake.

Serving Suggestions

As versatile as it is delicious, vanilla butter cake serves as a perfect base for many toppings and accompaniments. Try dusting it with powdered sugar or serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Fresh berries or a fruit compote can provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery sweetness—a delightful addition for summer gatherings.

For a more festive touch, consider glazing the cake with a light vanilla or lemon glaze. Simply mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk and vanilla extract until smooth, pouring it over the cooled cake. This not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing contrast to the golden crust. Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut to give it a new twist—your vanilla butter cake can take on endless personality with just a few simple changes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour can be used for a lighter texture!

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be great substitutes for sour cream.