Famous Butter Cake

This famous butter cake is a rich, buttery, and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The secret to its incredible flavor and texture lies in the combination of simple ingredients and careful preparation. This cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature

For the Butter Glaze:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry 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; do not overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan(s) for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Glaze

1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add Sugar and Water: Stir in the granulated sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Glaze the Cake

1. Poke Holes: Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
2. Pour Glaze: Pour the warm butter glaze over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the glaze.
3. Serve: Slice and serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Butter Cake:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Glaze: Pour the glaze while both the cake and glaze are still warm for better absorption.
• Storage: Store the butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

This famous butter cake is a timeless classic that will delight your taste buds with its rich buttery flavor and tender crumb. Enjoy it on its own, with a cup of tea or coffee, or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra special treat!