1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. The color should be pale yellow.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix each addition just until incorporated. It’s important not to overmix at this stage to keep the cake tender.
6. Bake:
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all perishable ingredients (butter, eggs, and milk) are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter that incorporates air properly for a light and fluffy texture.
- Proper Measuring: Accurately measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. Do not scoop the flour directly with the measuring cup to avoid adding too much.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined to prevent developing too much gluten, which can make the cake tough.
This soft butter cake recipe creates a wonderfully light and flavorful cake that’s versatile for various toppings and serves as a great base for many dessert creations. Enjoy the delightful texture and rich taste of your homemade butter cake!