Granny's Old Fashioned Butter Cake with Butter Cream Frosting

Imagine a cake that whispers stories of family gatherings, warm kitchens, and cherished memories. This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is more than just a dessert – it's a culinary heirloom passed down through generations, capturing the essence of home-style baking.

Rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying, this butter cake represents the pinnacle of classic American baking. Every bite tells a story of love, tradition, and the kind of comfort only a homemade cake can provide.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this butter cake promises to transport you back to Granny's kitchen.

Granny's Old Fashioned Butter Cake: A Timeless Dessert Tradition

Step into a world of pure baking magic with a cake that has stood the test of time. This butter cake recipe is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients and time-honored baking techniques.

Imagine cutting into a cake so moist and tender that it practically melts on your tongue. The rich buttercream frosting adds a luxurious finishing touch that elevates this classic dessert to new heights.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a steaming cup of coffee
• Serve as an afternoon tea treat
• Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Perfect for birthday celebrations
• Ideal for potlucks and family gatherings

Pro Tips for the Perfect Butter Cake:

Butter Brilliance: Use room temperature butter for the most smooth and creamy cake batter. Cold butter won't cream properly and can lead to a dense cake.

Mixing Magic: Don't overmix the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and tender.

Temperature Matters: Always use room temperature eggs. They blend more easily and create a more uniform batter.

Frosting Finesse: Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.

Make-Ahead Marvel: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Granny's Old Fashioned Butter Cake Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 30-45 minutes
• Servings: 12-16
• Equipment: 9-inch round cake pans or 9x13-inch baking dish, electric mixer, mixing bowls

Ingredients:

For the Cake Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Generously grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9x13-inch baking dish. This ensures your cake will release easily and maintain its beautiful shape.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. Use an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beating for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and almost white in color.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This method ensures each egg is fully incorporated, creating a smooth and consistent batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the cake's rich flavor.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the dry ingredients.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
6. Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pans, spreading it evenly and smoothing the tops with a spatula. This ensures an even bake and a beautiful, flat surface for frosting.
7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes for round pans, or 40 to 45 minutes for a 9x13-inch pan. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. This allows them to set and makes removal easier. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For the frosting, beat the butter on high speed until it becomes creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
10. Beat in the cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the frosting becomes smooth, fluffy, and reaches your desired consistency.
11. Once the cake is completely cool, frost as desired. You can create a simple layer cake or a rustic sheet cake – the choice is yours!

Ready to Indulge!

Slice into this butter cake and watch as memories come flooding back. Each bite is a reminder of the simple joys of home baking.

Storage Solutions:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month (without frosting)
• Bring to room temperature before serving
• Cover cut sides to prevent drying out

Whether you're recreating a beloved family recipe or starting a new tradition, this Granny's Old Fashioned Butter Cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Print