Indulge in the timeless elegance of a Classic Vanilla Butter Cake paired with a luscious, rich buttermilk sauce. This dessert brings together the light, moist texture of vanilla cake and the velvety sweetness of buttermilk sauce to create a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving a comforting treat, this cake promises to deliver joy in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, it’s a recipe anyone can master.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Buttermilk Sauce:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter (cubed)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the melted butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant touch.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing, which could make the cake dense.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Buttermilk Sauce
- While the cake cools, prepare the sauce by combining sugar, cubed butter, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The sauce should be smooth, glossy, and aromatic.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Once the cake has cooled, slice it into squares or serve whole.
- Pour the warm buttermilk sauce generously over each slice before serving. For added flair, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries.
- Enjoy this dessert warm or at room temperature, allowing the sauce to soak into the cake for an even more indulgent experience.
This Classic Vanilla Butter Cake with Buttermilk Sauce is a dessert to remember, combining the simplicity of a timeless recipe with the rich decadence of a homemade sauce. Perfect for casual get-togethers, formal dinners, or as a special treat for yourself, this cake is sure to win hearts. The moist texture and sweet sauce will transport you to dessert heaven with every bite. Why not give it a try and create unforgettable moments with family and friends over this delightful treat? Happy baking! ✨