Rich Butter Cake Recipe

A Luxuriously Moist Classic with a Golden Crust & Velvety Crumb – Perfect for Celebrations or Tea Time!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 | Difficulty: Intermediate | Dietary Note: Vegetarian (Vegan/GF options below)

Ingredients

(Professional Tip: Use European-style butter for higher fat content and superior flavor.)

2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for pan)
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter , softened
2 ½ cups (500g) granulated sugar
6 large eggs , room temperature
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract (or 1 tsp almond extract for variation)
1 cup whole milk , room temperature
Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar + 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven & Pan:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or 9x13-inch baking dish.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter & Sugar:
In a stand mixer, beat butter and sugar on medium-high for 5-7 minutes until pale and fluffy.
Add Eggs & Flavor:
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Scrape bowl, then beat in vanilla.
Alternate Mixing:
Add dry ingredients in 3 parts, alternating with milk in 2 parts. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
Bake to Golden Perfection:
Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
(Tip: Tent with foil if browning too quickly.)
Cool & Glaze:
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with glaze (if using) once fully cooled.