Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This is key for a light cake!
Step 3: Add Eggs
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
Step 6: Bake
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Serve
- Once cool, frost with your favorite frosting or dust with powdered sugar.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter, eggs, and milk ensures a smooth batter and better texture.
- Creaming Butter and Sugar: Cream well until pale and fluffy for a light cake.
- Cake Pans: Grease and flour, or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Butter Cake: Add zest of 2 lemons and use lemon extract instead of vanilla.
- Almond Butter Cake: Substitute half the vanilla with almond extract.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips.
- Frosting Options: Cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or vanilla buttercream work wonderfully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: Yes, reduce the salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon.
Q: How do I store it?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week (bring to room temperature before serving).
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes! Bake layers in advance and store wrapped at room temperature or freeze them.
Conclusion
This Mom’s Best Vanilla Butter Cake is a classic for any occasion. Its rich flavor and tender crumb will impress! Enjoy!
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