Why make this recipe
This butter cake is very soft and full of butter flavor. It makes a simple dessert that many people like. If you want a rich but easy cake, this one works well. For a savory dish with butter flavor you can try a similar recipe like our cowboy butter chicken linguine for dinner ideas.
This Super-moist Butter Cake is tender and keeps well. You can serve it plain or with fruit or cream. The cake soaks up a warm glaze so each slice is rich and moist. If you like bold butter notes in food, also check our crack chicken tenders easy dinner recipe for another buttery favorite.
How to make Super-moist Butter Cake Recipe – A Buttery, Tender Delight
Ingredients :
- 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
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions :
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan (or two 8-inch round pans).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Reduce mixer speed to low. Alternately add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, melt butter, water, and sugar over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Once the cake is done, poke holes all over the top using a toothpick. Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
For a glaze idea that pairs with buttery desserts, you can read about a similar simple sauce in our creamy garlic butter shrimp and rice notes.
How to serve Super-moist Butter Cake Recipe – A Buttery, Tender Delight
Serve this cake warm or at room temperature. Add fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream. You can also cut it into squares for a tea or potluck plate. Try serving a slice with a side dish like the layered sweet potato lasagna for a full menu.
How to store Super-moist Butter Cake Recipe – A Buttery, Tender Delight
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze slices for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.
Tips to make Super-moist Butter Cake Recipe – A Buttery, Tender Delight
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix after you add flour to keep the cake tender.
- Make sure the glaze is warm when you pour it so it soaks in well.
- If your butter is soft but not melted, the cake will cream properly and rise well. For more tips on using butter in recipes, see our quick homemade butter chicken article.
Variation (if any)
- Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the batter for a citrus note.
- Fold 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for texture.
- Replace half the milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangy crumb.

FAQs
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter gives the best flavor and texture. Margarine may change taste and moisture.
Q: Can I make this in two 8-inch round pans?
A: Yes. Bake time may change to about 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick.
Q: Do I need to cool the cake before pouring the glaze?
A: No. Pour the warm glaze right after the cake is out of the oven so it soaks in.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in the glaze?
A: Yes. You can lower the glaze sugar a little, but it will be less shiny and less sweet.
Q: Is it safe to poke holes in the cake?
A: Yes. Poking holes lets the glaze soak in and keeps the cake moist.
Conclusion
This Super-moist Butter Cake makes a simple, rich dessert you can make any night. If you want other moist cake ideas, try Moist Vanilla Almond Cake with Creamy Vanilla Buttercream for a nutty twist. For a different use of butter in cake form, see The Best Sweet Potato Pound Cake. If you need a gluten-free buttery cake idea, look at Buttery Gluten-Free Almond Cake with Strawberries. For a classic pound cake to compare, read The BEST Pound Cake Recipe in the South. For another spiced coffee cake with butter, try Pumpkin Coffee Cake.
Super-moist Butter Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan (or two 8-inch round pans).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Reduce mixer speed to low. Alternately add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, melt butter, water, and sugar over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Once the cake is done, poke holes all over the top using a toothpick. Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.

