This Vanilla Butter Cake is a timeless Southern favorite—tender, golden, and rich with real butter and vanilla, then drenched in a warm, tangy-sweet buttermilk sauce that soaks into every crumb. With just one bowl and 30 minutes, it delivers old-fashioned comfort that tastes like it’s been baking all day.
Served warm from the oven, it’s the kind of dessert that draws everyone to the kitchen—and always earns a second helping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍰 One-bowl, no mixer needed!
- ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 25–30 minutes bake
- 💛 Uses pantry staples + buttermilk
- 💸 Costs under $6—feeds 8–10 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Buttermilk Sauce:
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of baking soda (creates a gentle fizz that thickens the sauce)
💡 Pro Tips:
- Use room-temperature egg and milk for even mixing.
- Don’t overmix batter—stir until just combined for tender crumb.
- Pour sauce over cake IMMEDIATELY after baking—it soaks in best while hot.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Moist, Golden, Foolproof)
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch or 9-inch round baking pan.
2. Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla.
- Stir gently until smooth (a few lumps are okay).
3. Bake to Perfection
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