Ingredients
- 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- 375g (3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 12g (1 tbsp) baking powder
- 2g (1/2 tsp) baking soda
- 2g (1/2 tsp) salt
- 240ml (1 cup) buttermilk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly butter the sides.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat 225g (1 cup) of softened butter with 200g (1 cup) of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Cream until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 5ml (1 tsp) of vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 375g (3 cups) all-purpose flour, 12g (1 tbsp) baking powder, 2g (1/2 tsp) baking soda, and 2g (1/2 tsp) salt.
Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture in three stages, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Fold gently to maintain the batter’s lightness.
Step 6: Transfer and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with an offset spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, serve as desired—be it with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries.
Conclusion
Congratulations on crafting a delightful buttermilk cake, rich in texture and subtly complex in flavor. Baking with buttermilk is a timeless tradition, blending nostalgia with complexity to refresh the senses with every bite. Experiment with additional flavors and fillings once you master this fundamental version. May this cake become a cherished staple in your collection of trusted recipes. Happy baking!
