Get ready to fall in love with Easy Butter Cake—a classic treat that’s as effortless as it is dreamy. This golden, rich cake bakes up soft and fluffy every single time, and the sweet buttery glaze takes it right over the top. Whether you’re after a quick dessert for a weeknight dinner or something impressive for a celebration, Easy Butter Cake shines in any setting. One bite and you’ll understand why this recipe is a beloved staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Easy Butter Cake is its simplicity: just a handful of pantry staples, each working its own behind-the-scenes magic. These ingredients are humble, but together, they create an unforgettable cake that’s both elegant and comforting.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure and that tender crumb we adore.
Baking powder: Ensures your cake rises beautifully light and tall every time.
Salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness and make those buttery notes pop.
Unsalted butter (for the cake and glaze): The star player—use high-quality butter for maximum richness and flavor.
Granulated sugar: Delivers sweetness and helps create that soft, moist texture.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and add a subtle richness that elevates the crumb.
Vanilla extract: A little splash lifts all the flavors and gives the cake its cozy aroma.
Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and provides a lovely, tender bite.
Water (for the glaze): Thins out the glaze just enough so it soaks into every bite.

How to Make Easy Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and either grease and flour it or line it with parchment paper—this step guarantees your Easy Butter Cake slides out perfectly, every time.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures they’re evenly distributed, so your cake rises uniformly and each bite is just right.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. This step traps air for a soft, tender crumb—don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finish by stirring in the vanilla extract—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

With your mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. This method gives you a smooth batter that’s never over-mixed.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and smooth the top. Pop it in the oven for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know your Easy Butter Cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare the Buttery Glaze

While the cake bakes, melt the butter and water together in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until completely combined, then take it off the heat—you want it warm and ready to work its magic.

Step 8: Glaze and Finish

When your cake emerges, poke holes all over the surface using a toothpick or skewer. Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake, letting it soak into every nook and cranny. This final touch is what gives Easy Butter Cake its melt-in-your-mouth finish.

How to Serve Easy Butter Cake

Garnishes

Let your Easy Butter Cake shine with simple additions—think a light sprinkle of powdered sugar, a handful of fresh berries, or even a few slivers of toasted almonds. If you’re feeling extra decadent, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream never goes amiss.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with fruit salads, a cup of coffee, or a glass of cold milk. If you want to dress it up for guests, try serving it with tangy lemon curd or a medley of fresh citrus segments to cut the sweetness nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Easy Butter Cake is a canvas for creativity. Serve it in neat squares for a bake sale, cut it into rounds with a biscuit cutter for party-worthy mini cakes, or layer cubes in a trifle dish with berries and cream for a showstopping dessert. You can even drizzle it with chocolate or caramel sauces to take things over the top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Easy Butter Cake covered at room temperature for up to two days—it stays soft and delightful. For longer storage, simply wrap it well and refrigerate for up to a week; just let slices come to room temperature before enjoying so they’re as tender as freshly baked.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or whole slabs tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Stash them in a freezer-safe bag, and your cake will keep its fabulous flavor for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you like your Easy Butter Cake warm, microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds—they’ll taste as if they just came out of the oven. Don’t overheat, though—a few seconds is all it takes to refresh that signature soft crumb.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! Just reduce the added salt in the recipe to compensate. Salted butter will add a touch more savory flavor, which some folks really enjoy in their butter cake.

What if I don’t have whole milk?

You can easily swap in 2% milk or even a non-dairy version for a lighter twist. The cake will still be moist, though extra-rich dairy works best for that classic Easy Butter Cake taste and texture.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The best way is to check with a toothpick—stick it into the center of the cake. If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter), your Easy Butter Cake is ready to come out of the oven.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Certainly! Simply double all the ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans, or try a larger sheet pan. Just keep an eye on baking times, as a bigger batch may take a little longer or need to be rotated in the oven.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this butter cake?

Easy Butter Cake is beautifully adaptable! Swirl in some citrus zest, mix in chocolate chips, or gently fold in chopped nuts for a personal twist. Just be mindful not to overload the batter so your cake stays fluffy.

Final Thoughts

Truly, this Easy Butter Cake belongs in every baker’s recipe collection. It’s so simple, supremely delicious, and oh-so-versatile—once you try it, you’ll reach for it again and again. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to something special today!