This melt-in-the-mouth cake is a soft, buttery delight that dissolves effortlessly with every bite. Its rich, tender crumb and delicate sweetness make it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a tea-time treat or dressing it up for a celebration. The secret to its irresistible texture lies in the balance of ingredients and careful mixing techniques. This recipe is simple yet indulgent, ensuring a cake that is light, airy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. - Add the Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the cake’s structure and prevents curdling. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter. - Incorporate the Vanilla Extract
Stir in the vanilla extract for a subtle, fragrant sweetness. - Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as-is or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense.
- For extra moisture, substitute half the milk with sour cream or yogurt.
- Enhance the flavor by adding lemon zest or almond extract.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Version: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder for a rich chocolate twist.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup chopped almonds or pecans for added texture.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in ½ cup diced strawberries or blueberries for a fruity burst.
This cake is a true classic—simple, elegant, and irresistibly soft. Whether you enjoy it plain or dress it up with toppings, it’s sure to be a favorite! 🍰✨
Would you like more variations or serving ideas?