Introduction: A true classic, this Vanilla Butter Cake is soft, buttery, and perfectly moist. Paired with a rich and tangy buttermilk sauce, it creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking for a comforting treat, this cake will be a hit with family and friends. It’s simple yet decadent, offering the perfect combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Butter Cake:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk
For the Buttermilk Sauce:
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Cake: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake: Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Buttermilk Sauce: While the cake is cooling, combine the buttermilk, butter, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Serve:
Once the cake has cooled, pour the warm buttermilk sauce over the top of the cake, letting it soak in. Slice and serve!
Description:
This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake is the epitome of simple yet indulgent baking. The cake itself is rich and buttery, with a light crumb that melts in your mouth. The tangy buttermilk sauce poured over the top adds a layer of complexity and moisture, taking this dessert to the next level. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this cake will surely become a favorite.
Tips:
Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined.
Cooling the Cake: Allow the cake to cool slightly before pouring the sauce on top. This ensures the sauce soaks in without making the cake too soggy.
Reheat Sauce: If the sauce cools and thickens too much before serving, simply reheat it gently on the stove to loosen it up.
Variations:
Add Fruit: Top the cake with fresh berries or a fruit compote for an added burst of flavor.
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the cake batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cake along with the buttermilk sauce.
Corrections:
Be sure to accurately measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make the cake dry.
When making the buttermilk sauce, ensure it doesn’t boil too vigorously, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
Enjoy:
Indulge in the comforting, delicious flavors of this Classic Vanilla Butter Cake with Buttermilk Sauce. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s a treat that will bring smiles to everyone’s face. Enjoy every slice!