How to Make the Butter Vanilla Cake
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake with a delicate crumb.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter-egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
How to Make the Four-Ingredient Glaze
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Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
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Adjust Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a few drops of milk. If too thin, add a little more powdered sugar until it reaches a pourable consistency.
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Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade naturally down the sides. You can use a spoon or a small offset spatula for an even spread.
Tips for Success:
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter.
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Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined.
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Customize Your Glaze: For a subtle twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of almond extract to the glaze.
This butter vanilla cake with a four-ingredient glaze is simplicity at its finest. It’s moist, tender, and perfectly sweet—yet quick enough to make on a whim. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or enjoy it as a solo indulgence with a cup of tea, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
