This recipe yields a moist and buttery classic loaf cake, perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a simple dessert. It’s a versatile base that can be enjoyed as is or customized with glazes, fruit, or nuts.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating a tender cake. Use an electric mixer if available.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This distributes the leavening agent (baking powder) evenly throughout the dry ingredients.
- Alternate Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
Optional Additions/Variations:
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright citrus flavor.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg adds warmth.
- Glaze: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze or a lemon glaze for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Fruit: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries) or chopped fruit (apples, peaches) before baking.
- Nuts: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) to the batter for added texture.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness in the center of the cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Enjoy your delicious classic butter loaf cake!