Introduction
A slice of Moist Butter Cake is like a little piece of heaven, rich in flavor and incredibly tender. This classic cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging in a sweet treat. With its buttery texture and sweet glaze, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. In this blog post, we’ll provide a detailed guide to making this delicious cake, including ingredient quantities, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this moist and flavorful cake.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Butter cake is a timeless dessert that has its roots in European baking traditions. The use of butter as a primary ingredient dates back to the 18th century, when bakers in countries like France and England began incorporating it into their cakes to create a rich, tender crumb. Over the years, butter cake has become a beloved treat in many cultures, often enjoyed during celebrations and family gatherings. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to dessert for bakers of all skill levels. The moist and buttery texture of this cake, combined with the sweet glaze, creates a delightful experience that transcends generations and cultures.
Ingredients Quantity
To make Moist Butter Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Additions
Consider these optional ingredients to elevate your Moist Butter Cake:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a hint of citrus.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or pecans) for added crunch.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup fresh berries for a burst of color and sweetness.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your Moist Butter Cake turns out perfectly:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Cream Properly: Beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to incorporate air and create a tender crumb.
- Alternate Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients, to avoid overmixing.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool slightly before pouring the glaze to ensure it soaks in evenly.
Instructions and Description
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour Batter:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack.
8. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine butter, water, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
9. Glazing the Cake:
Use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. Slowly pour the glaze over the cake, letting it soak into the holes. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion and Recommendation
In conclusion, Moist Butter Cake is a classic dessert that offers a rich and buttery experience with every bite. With its tender crumb and sweet glaze, it is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. We recommend serving this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. Share this delightful cake with your loved ones and enjoy the moments of sweetness.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this cake a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reducing the amount of sugar. You can also substitute some of the butter with applesauce to cut down on fat. Adding fresh fruit like berries or a light yogurt topping can enhance the cake’s nutritional profile. Embracing healthful indulgence means enjoying your favorite desserts while making mindful choices to maintain a balanced diet.
Conclusion
By following this detailed recipe and tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and moist Butter Cake that your family and friends will love. Enjoy the process of baking and savor every bite of this rich and flavorful cake. Happy baking!