Butter Vanilla Cakes

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Butter Vanilla Cakes

Rich, Moist, and Elegantly Simple Treats for Every Occasion

These Butter Vanilla Cakes are the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Soft, fluffy, moist, and beautifully fragrant, these mini cakes (or one large cake) are ideal for any occasion—whether you’re serving them with coffee, tea, or as a sweet afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Light, tender crumb thanks to the perfect balance of flour, cornstarch, and butter
  • Rich vanilla aroma that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or milk
  • Versatile: bake as mini cakes or a single loaf cake
  • Simple pantry ingredients
  • Foolproof instructions perfect for beginners

Ingredients:

  • 120 g (4.2 oz / approx. 1 cup minus 1 1/2 tbsp) all-purpose wheat flour
  • 30 g (1.05 oz / 3 1/2 tbsp) cornstarch
    (or powdered milk, or simply substitute with additional flour if needed)
  • 4 g (1 1/8 tsp) baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 110 g (3.9 oz / 1 stick + 1 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 40 ml (4 tbsp) neutral vegetable oil
    (or substitute with an additional 40 g butter if you prefer)
  • 140 g (4.9 oz / approx. 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) white caster sugar
  • 10 g (1 tbsp) vanilla sugar
    (or use 150 g sugar total with 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 40 ml (4 tbsp) warm milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Whisk well to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 165°C (330°F). Prepare your baking molds:

  • For mini cakes: grease and line the molds with parchment paper.
  • For a loaf cake: use a 25 cm x 13 cm x 6 cm (10″ x 5″ x 2.5″) loaf pan, greased and lined.

3. Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, add the softened butter and neutral vegetable oil. Add the caster sugar and vanilla sugar (or vanilla extract if using).
Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 3–5 minutes until it becomes pale, fluffy, and creamy.

4. Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating for about 30 seconds after each addition. This helps create a stable emulsion and ensures your batter remains light and smooth.
Once all eggs are incorporated, continue beating for another 2–3 minutes at medium speed to further aerate the batter.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the warm milk. Start and end with the dry mixture.

  • Mix gently on low speed after each addition or fold by hand using a spatula.
  • Make sure the batter is smooth, lump-free, and fully combined without overmixing.

6. Fill the Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared molds or loaf pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

7. Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until:

  • The top is golden brown
  • A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean
  • Your kitchen is filled with a rich, buttery aroma

Note: Mini cakes will bake slightly faster (check at 35–45 minutes).

8. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 5 minutes after baking. Then, carefully remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success:

  • Room temperature ingredients help create a smooth, well-emulsified batter.
  • Don’t overmix once the flour is added to avoid a dense texture.
  • Use good quality vanilla for maximum flavor.
  • This cake freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Enjoy plain or lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
  • Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for a simple dessert.
  • Pair with a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or milk for an afternoon treat.

This Butter Vanilla Cake is a simple yet elegant recipe that you’ll come back to again and again. Moist, rich, and full of comforting vanilla flavor, it’s perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.

 

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