Step 1: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8- or 9-inch round cake pan, or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- Beat Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer on medium-high speed for about 3–4 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This will help create a light, airy texture.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternate Adding Flour and Milk: With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix, as it can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake springs back lightly when touched.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool in the Pan: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, or frost with buttercream, whipped cream, or any topping of choice.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Vanilla Sponge Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs, milk, and butter for the smoothest batter and best rise.
- Gentle Mixing: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Flavor Variations: Add lemon zest or almond extract for a twist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Butter Vanilla Sponge Cake is a versatile classic, with a delicate crumb and a rich, buttery vanilla flavor. Whether you’re making it as a birthday cake or as an afternoon treat, this cake will be a favorite for its simplicity and elegance. Enjoy each fluffy bite!