There’s just something magical about a classic butter cake. The rich, buttery aroma fills your kitchen as it bakes, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere that feels like home. And when you top it with a luscious, velvety chocolate frosting? Pure bliss! This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is the kind of dessert that makes any occasion feel special. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a celebration, or just because you deserve a sweet treat, this cake is guaranteed to hit the spot. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating delicious memories. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a Sunday afternoon treat, or a cozy dessert night, this butter cake fits any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Timeless Classic: A simple yet rich butter cake with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that never goes out of style.
Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this a no-fuss recipe, perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of a moist cake and decadent chocolate frosting makes this an irresistible dessert for all ages.
Customizable: Add a hint of vanilla, almond, or even a splash of coffee in the frosting for a fun twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or just a casual treat, this cake always delivers!
Ingredients
Butter: The foundation of this cake, providing rich flavor and a tender crumb.
Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness and helps create a soft texture.
Eggs: Give the cake structure and contribute to its fluffiness.
Flour: The base ingredient that holds everything together.
Baking Powder: Ensures a light and airy cake with just the right rise.
Milk: Keeps the cake moist and enhances the richness.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Salt: A small but essential ingredient that balances the sweetness.
Chocolate Frosting: A luscious, creamy topping that perfectly complements the buttery cake.
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to the right temperature to ensure even baking and the perfect texture.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step helps create a smooth, airy batter.
Add the Eggs: Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. This keeps the batter smooth and well-balanced.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, whip up the chocolate frosting until smooth and creamy.
Frost and Enjoy: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top. Slice, serve, and enjoy every bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Old Fashioned Butter Cake with Chocolate Frosting
This cake is fantastic on its own but even better with a few enhancements:
With Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries complements the sweet, chocolatey frosting beautifully.
A Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A simple yet elegant touch for added sweetness.
A Drizzle of Caramel or Ganache: If you’re feeling extra decadent, a light drizzle takes this cake to the next level.
Additional Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth, well-mixed batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Cool Before Frosting: Let the cake cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.
FAQ Section
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance and store it unfrosted in an airtight container. Frost before serving.
2. Can I use a different frosting? Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting, caramel glaze, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar would all work great.
3. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5 days.
5. Can I make cupcakes instead? Definitely! Just adjust the baking time to around 18-20 minutes for cupcakes.
6. What can I substitute for milk? You can use almond milk, oat milk, or buttermilk for a slightly different flavor.
7. Can I add nuts to the batter? Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch.
8. How do I get a fluffier cake? Make sure to cream the butter and sugar well and avoid overmixing the batter.
9. Can I double this recipe? Yes, just use a larger pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.
10. How can I make the frosting extra smooth? Sift the powdered sugar before mixing and beat the frosting until it’s light and fluffy.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Butter Cake with Chocolate Frosting is a true classic that never fails to impress. It’s rich, buttery, and perfectly complemented by the smooth chocolate frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s bake something delicious!
Print
Old Fashioned Butter Cake with Chocolate Frosting
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (1 slice per serving) 1x
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A timeless classic! This Old Fashioned Butter Cake is a simple, flavorful treat with a soft, buttery crumb. Topped with rich and creamy homemade chocolate frosting, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or anytime you want a slice of nostalgia.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter or margarine
- 2/3 cup Hershey’s cocoa
- 3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 1/3 cup milk (plus additional drops as needed for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch x 2-inch baking pans and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the butter, milk, and vanilla. With a hand mixer, beat for 2 minutes, occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Add eggs and beat for 2 more minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans, dividing equally. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite frosting (see below for the suggested chocolate frosting).
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature butter and eggs.
- You can use margarine instead of butter for the frosting, but butter provides a richer flavor.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer bag.
- The frosting recipe makes enough to generously frost the cake; you can also use it for cupcakes or brownies.
- This cake can be served at room temperature or chilled for a denser texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 50mg