Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen, the Old Fashioned Butter Cake is the answer! This cake is spectacularly moist, rich in buttery flavor, and has a simple charm that makes it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Fun fact: this recipe has roots in Southern kitchens, where cakes were often made to celebrate family gatherings and special events. With its straightforward ingredients and quick prep time, it’s an excellent choice for aspiring bakers of all ages! Imagine slicing into this cake and enjoying a piece that’s as comforting as a warm hug from Grandma.
Now, if you love cakes, you might also want to check out our Classic Chocolate Cake recipe. It’s equally delightful but packed with rich chocolate. But let’s face it, sometimes you just can’t beat the classic butter cake! So grab your mixing bowl and come along as we bake something scrumptious!
What is Old Fashioned Butter Cake?
You might wonder, what exactly is an Old Fashioned Butter Cake? It’s a timeless dessert that has been delighting taste buds for generations. The name speaks for itself, doesn’t it? With butter as the star ingredient, this cake is a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake is definitely a ticket to anyone’s heart! Legend has it that this cake was often baked as a welcome treat for guests. Who wouldn’t feel special being served a slice of buttery bliss? So why not give this recipe a shot and create your memories?
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Butter Cake
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is a must-try for several reasons. First of all, the buttery goodness of this cake literally melts in your mouth, creating a deliciously rich experience with every bite. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a great cost-saving recipe to make at home! Why spend your hard-earned cash at a bakery when you can whip up this fantastic dessert with just a few ingredients you already have at home? Additionally, you can enjoy it plain, or dress it up with a variety of toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce! It offers a delightful flair that’ll make every bite special.
If you enjoy cakes, you may also like our Classic Vanilla Pound Cake—it’s another sweet treat that’s simple yet utterly satisfying. After you’ve enjoyed this butter cake, why not explore more of your culinary possibilities?
How to Make Old Fashioned Butter Cake
Quick Overview
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only about 15 minutes of prep time. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or weekends when you want something sweet without a hassle! The blend of creamy butter, sugar, and eggs creates a tender texture that is undeniably rich and satisfying.
Key Ingredients for Old Fashioned Butter Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch round baking pans by greasing and flouring them.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Butter and Wet Ingredients: Add in the softened butter, milk, and vanilla. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even blend.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs to the batter, and beat for an additional 2 minutes until well combined.
- Pour into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake the Cakes: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Down: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Frost and Enjoy: Once the cakes are cool, frost them with your favorite frosting, like the “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Frosting for an extra special touch!
What to Serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake With
The Old Fashioned Butter Cake stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream truly elevates the experience! You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist. A nice cup of coffee or tea also complements a slice of this delightful cake perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Butter Cake
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined, especially when you add the flour, to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free butter.
- Test for Doneness: Always test your cake with a toothpick to ensure it’s perfectly baked but avoid opening the oven door too early as it can cause the cake to sink.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store the Old Fashioned Butter Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will remain fresh at room temperature for about 2 to 3 days. If you have leftover slices, they can be refrigerated for longer storage—around a week. For optimal taste, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge. If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it well and store it for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!
Now that you have this delightful Old Fashioned Butter Cake recipe, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you!

Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch round baking pans by greasing and flouring them.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Butter and Wet Ingredients: Add in the softened butter, milk, and vanilla. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even blend.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs to the batter, and beat for an additional 2 minutes until well combined.
- Pour into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake the Cakes: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Down: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Frost and Enjoy: Once the cakes are cool, frost them with your favorite frosting, like the “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Frosting for an extra special touch!
- What to Serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake With
- The Old Fashioned Butter Cake stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream truly elevates the experience! You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist. A nice cup of coffee or tea also complements a slice of this delightful cake perfectly.
- Top Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Butter Cake
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined, especially when you add the flour, to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Substitutions: If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free butter.
- Test for Doneness: Always test your cake with a toothpick to ensure it's perfectly baked but avoid opening the oven door too early as it can cause the cake to sink.
- Storing and Reheating Tips
- To store the Old Fashioned Butter Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will remain fresh at room temperature for about 2 to 3 days. If you have leftover slices, they can be refrigerated for longer storage—around a week. For optimal taste, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge. If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it well and store it for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!
- Now that you have this delightful Old Fashioned Butter Cake recipe, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you!

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