Instructions
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 and airy cake!
Step 3: Add Eggs
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 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 extract.
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 cooled, frost with your favorite frosting or dust with powdered sugar.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Creaming is Crucial: Cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy for a lighter cake.
- Prevent Sticking: Grease and flour your pans well, or use parchment paper.
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 Cake: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips.
- Frosting Fun: Try cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or vanilla buttercream.
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.
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 guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Its rich flavor and tender texture will impress everyone. Enjoy!
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