A Classic Southern Butter Cake is a rich, buttery dessert with a moist crumb and a delicious flavor. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you want to enjoy a classic treat. Here’s a straightforward recipe for you:
Classic Southern Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for best results.
- Add Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Extracts:
- Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
- Pour Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread it evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using two round pans, they may bake slightly faster, so start checking around 20-25 minutes.
- Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost or Serve:
- You can serve the cake plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a simple glaze or frosting of your choice.
Simple Glaze (Optional)
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle Over Cake:
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
This Classic Southern Butter Cake is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!