Maggiano’s Butter Cake Recipe: Easy Homemade Delight

Updated On: October 14, 2025

If you’re a fan of rich, buttery desserts that melt in your mouth, then Maggiano’s Butter Cake is a must-try. This classic Italian-American dessert is beloved for its moist texture, golden crust, and irresistibly buttery flavor.

Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply craving a comforting sweet treat, this butter cake recipe brings the charm and warmth of Maggiano’s right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a dependable, crowd-pleasing dessert.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll achieve a bakery-quality cake that’s perfect on its own or paired with fresh berries and whipped cream. Plus, it’s a versatile base for endless variations.

Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the detailed Maggiano’s Butter Cake recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Maggiano’s Butter Cake recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it boasts a beautifully moist and tender crumb thanks to the balanced use of butter and buttermilk.

The cake’s golden brown exterior offers a slight crunch that contrasts perfectly with its soft interior, delivering a delightful texture experience.

Second, it’s incredibly easy to make with pantry staples—no fancy ingredients or techniques needed. Whether you’re baking for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this cake will shine every time.

Lastly, it’s a nostalgic dessert that brings comfort and joy with every bite, reminiscent of dining at Maggiano’s Little Italy. If you love classic, buttery cakes with a hint of vanilla, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or glaze for topping

Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Whisk
  • Cooling rack
  • Optional: sifter for flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray and lightly flour it to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create a smooth, well-incorporated batter.
  5. Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
  6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until incorporated after each addition. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
  9. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  10. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze before serving for added sweetness.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin mixing.”

Here are a few tips to make sure your butter cake turns out perfect every time:

  • Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a denser cake.
  • Use fresh baking powder and baking soda. This ensures proper rising and a light texture.
  • Try adding a tablespoon of lemon zest for a fresh citrus twist that complements the buttery flavor.
  • For a richer cake, substitute half the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
  • Transform this cake into a layered dessert by slicing it horizontally and adding whipped cream and fresh berries between layers.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 slice)
Calories 350 kcal
Total Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 11 g
Cholesterol 95 mg
Sodium 220 mg
Total Carbohydrates 40 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sugars 25 g
Protein 5 g

Serving Suggestions

This butter cake is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic dessert.

For a fresh and fruity option, top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry compote. You can also drizzle a simple lemon glaze or honey over the cake for extra sweetness and shine.

If you’re hosting a party, cut the cake into small squares and serve alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, sprinkle with toasted almonds or chopped pistachios.

Conclusion

Maggiano’s Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its moist, buttery texture and satisfying flavor make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday celebrations.

With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this recipe invites bakers of all levels to create a truly delicious homemade cake.

Whether you enjoy it plain, dressed up with fresh fruit, or paired with ice cream, this butter cake will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection. For more delicious and easy recipes to complement your baking adventures, be sure to explore our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Maggiano's Butter Cake

Description: A rich and moist butter cake with a buttery glaze that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, this classic dessert is simple yet indulgent.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for glaze)
  • 2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  3. Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
  7. Stir in vanilla extract.
  8. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  10. While cake is baking, melt butter, milk, and powdered sugar together to make glaze.
  11. Remove cake from oven and poke holes with a fork; pour glaze over warm cake.
  12. Let cake cool before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 50 g

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Marta K

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