There’s something timeless about a soft, rich yellow butter cake. With its tender crumb, buttery flavor, and light sweetness, this cake is perfect for any occasion—whether served plain with tea or dressed up with frosting and toppings. This easy homemade recipe delivers a moist and fluffy cake that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 200 grams all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 200 grams caster sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (see notes)
- 250 grams unsalted butter, softened (see notes)
- 4 eggs, at room temperature
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a 7-inch or 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well with butter and lightly dusting it with flour.
2. Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt at least 2–3 times. This step helps create a lighter, fluffier cake texture.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and creamy. This process incorporates air, which helps the cake rise.
4. Add Eggs Gradually
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth and well-emulsified batter.
5. Add Vanilla Flavor
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the flour mixture in 2–3 parts, alternating with the milk. Gently fold or mix after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft.
7. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Serve plain or enjoy with tea, coffee, or milk. For an extra treat, drizzle with chocolate sauce or add your favorite frosting.
Tips and Notes
- Pan Size Adjustment: If you want to make a smaller batch, halve the recipe and use an 8×4-inch loaf pan. Bake for 32–35 minutes.
- Butter Choice: If using salted butter, omit the added salt in the recipe.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This yellow butter cake is wonderfully versatile. You can:
- Serve it plain for a simple snack
- Top it with powdered sugar for a light finish
- Pair it with fresh fruits like berries or mangoes
- Add frosting or chocolate glaze for a celebration cake
Final Thoughts
This classic yellow butter cake is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade dessert, this recipe offers a reliable and satisfying result every time.
