Famous Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan(s) for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Glaze

1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add Sugar and Water: Stir in the granulated sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Glaze the Cake

1. Poke Holes: Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
2. Pour Glaze: Pour the warm butter glaze over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the glaze.
3. Serve: Slice and serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Butter Cake:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Glaze: Pour the glaze while both the cake and glaze are still warm for better absorption.
• Storage: Store the butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

This famous butter cake is a timeless classic that will delight your taste buds with its rich buttery flavor and tender crumb. Enjoy it on its own, with a cup of tea or coffee, or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra special treat!