Best Butter Cake Recipe – Moist, Classic & how to make 2025

Butter cake is the heart of many cherished dessert tables, known for its rich flavor, tender crumb, and golden-brown perfection. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a holiday, or simply because it’s Tuesday, a classic butter cake recipe always hits the spot.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to bake the perfect butter cake, from its origins to expert tips, variations, and answers to the most commonly asked questions.

A Sweet Slice of History

The butter cake originated in Europe and found its way to American kitchens in the 1700s. Over time, it evolved with regional adaptations such as the Kentucky butter cake and the gooey, cream cheese-filled variation from St. Louis. These rich desserts were a staple thanks to the accessibility of butter and sugar.

Southern recipes in particular hold a nostalgic charm. Southern Living’s Butter Cake Guide showcases how deeply ingrained this dessert is in Southern hospitality and tradition.

Key Ingredients That Make It Magical

To create a soft, moist butter cake, high-quality ingredients are crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter (room temperature)
Granulated sugar
Eggs (large)
All-purpose or cake flour
Baking powder and/or baking soda
Milk or buttermilk
Vanilla extract
Salt

The ingredients may seem simple, but their ratios and preparation methods make a major difference. This classic butter cake recipe explains the role of each component for perfect texture and taste.

Tools You’ll Need

For best results, gather the following baking tools:

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls (various sizes)
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
8 or 9-inch round cake pans
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Butter Cake Recipe

Follow these detailed steps to make your own butter cake from scratch:

1. Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease and flour your cake pans

2. Mix Ingredients

Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each
Sift together dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt)
Alternate adding dry mixture and milk to the butter mix
Stir in vanilla extract

3. Bake

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack

4. Serve

Dust with powdered sugar or frost with buttercream
Serve with berries, ice cream, or enjoy on its own

Variations to Try

Gooey Butter Cake

Originated in St. Louis
Features a cream cheese layer
Often served as a dessert bar

Kentucky Butter Cake

Uses a buttery sugar glaze poured over warm cake
Creates a sweet crust and moist interior
Try this Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe for a traditional version

Flavor Add-Ins

Lemon zest or orange extract
Chopped nuts or dried fruits
Cocoa powder for chocolate butter cake

Tips for a Perfect Butter Cake

Use ingredients at room temperature
Don’t overmix once flour is added
Measure flour by spooning it into the cup, not scooping
Cool completely before frosting
Wrap tightly in plastic for freshness

Nutritional Snapshot

A standard slice of butter cake contains:

Calories: ~350
Fat: ~18g
Carbs: ~40g
Protein: ~4g

To lighten it up, substitute part of the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

**What is the difference between butter cake and pound cake?**

Pound cake traditionally uses equal parts butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, making it denser. Butter cake, on the other hand, uses leavening agents and sometimes milk, which gives it a lighter texture and moist crumb.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?

You can, but margarine has more water and less fat than butter, which can affect flavor and texture. For best results, use real unsalted butter.

**How can I prevent a dry butter cake?**

Don’t overbake—use the toothpick test
Use room temperature butter and eggs
Measure flour correctly (spoon and level)
Consider adding buttermilk or a splash of sour cream for moisture

Do I need to use cake flour?

Cake flour creates a more delicate texture. If unavailable, you can substitute by removing 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour per cup and adding 2 tbsp cornstarch.

**Can I freeze butter cake?**

Yes! Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

**How long will butter cake stay fresh?**

A properly stored butter cake stays fresh for 3–4 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to a week but let it come to room temp before eating for best flavor.

**How does over mixing affect butter cake?**

Overmixing can develop too much gluten in the flour, leading to a dense or rubbery texture. Mix just until ingredients are combined, especially after adding flour.

**How do you know when butter cake is done?**

The top will be golden brown
A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
The cake should spring back lightly when touched

**How far in advance can you make a butter cake?**

You can make the cake layers 1–2 days in advance. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temp or refrigerate. Frosting can be added the day of serving.

**How do you keep butter cake moist?**

Use full-fat dairy ingredients like whole milk or sour cream
Wrap in plastic once cooled to retain moisture
Avoid overbaking
Brush with a simple syrup if the cake feels too dry after baking

**How many days can a buttercream cake sit out?**

A buttercream-covered cake can safely sit out at room temperature for 2–3 days if stored in a cool, dry place. After that, refrigerate it to preserve freshness.

What is the difference between butter cake and pound cake?

Pound cake typically uses equal parts butter, flour, sugar, and eggs and is denser. Butter cake is lighter and includes leavening agents.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

You can, but it won’t deliver the same rich flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my butter cake from becoming dry?

Avoid overbaking
Measure flour accurately
Use buttermilk or sour cream for added moisture

Is cake flour necessary?

Cake flour creates a lighter crumb, but you can substitute all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch (1 cup minus 2 tbsp flour + 2 tbsp cornstarch).

Can I freeze butter cake?

Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

A homemade butter cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and the joy of baking from scratch. With just a handful of quality ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a cake that’s rich, moist, and full of flavor. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, mastering the butter cake recipe is a skill worth having in your repertoire.

This timeless classic offers endless versatility. From simple vanilla butter cake to gooey or glazed variations like Kentucky Butter Cake, it’s the kind of treat that brings people together and keeps them coming back for seconds. Best of all, it’s a recipe that’s easy to customize to your taste or occasion.

So preheat that oven, grab your mixing bowl, and bake something truly special. Once you taste that first buttery bite, you’ll understand why the butter cake remains a beloved staple across generations.

Ready to bake? Try the recipe today and rediscover the beauty of a cake that never goes out of style.