There’s something irresistibly comforting about a classic butter cake, especially when it’s made vegetarian-friendly without compromising on flavor or texture. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this best vegetarian butter cake recipe is sure to become your go-to for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day.
Rich, buttery, and moist, this cake is delightfully soft with a golden crust that’s perfect for any occasion.
What makes this cake stand out is its simplicity and the use of wholesome, vegetarian ingredients that everyone can enjoy. No eggs?
No problem! This recipe uses clever substitutes to maintain that signature buttery crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring basic kitchen staples and just a little patience. Ready to dive into this delicious journey?
Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian butter cake recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It combines the richness of butter with the lightness of a perfectly balanced batter, creating a moist and tender crumb every time.
The recipe is designed to be accessible for all levels of baking experience, so even beginners can achieve professional results.
Unlike many butter cakes that rely on eggs, this recipe uses simple vegetarian alternatives, making it suitable for those who avoid eggs but still crave that classic buttery flavor. It’s versatile too — you can dress it up with your favorite frostings, fresh fruits, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
It’s an excellent base for experimenting with flavors without losing the cake’s signature softness.
Finally, this cake holds up beautifully for days, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this butter cake will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (to react with baking soda and act as an egg substitute)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60g) plain yogurt or buttermilk (for moisture)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or loaf pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for lining)
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Sieve or fine-mesh strainer (for flour)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. Use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb.
- Mix the milk, vanilla extract, apple cider vinegar, and yogurt. Combine these wet ingredients in a separate bowl and let sit for 5 minutes. The vinegar will react with the baking soda to help the cake rise.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and helps to aerate the flour for a lighter cake.
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk mixture. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently after each addition just until combined — do not overmix or the cake will be dense.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing or frosting.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra moist cake, you can brush the layers with a simple syrup infused with vanilla or lemon zest after baking.”
- Flavor twists: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or a handful of chopped nuts to the batter for a unique touch.
- Frosting ideas: Pair this cake with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for a simple finish.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use plant-based yogurt and milk.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for a week.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 slice) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 11g |
Carbohydrates | 38g |
Sugars | 22g |
Protein | 3g |
Fiber | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
This butter cake shines on its own, but you can elevate it with a few delightful accompaniments. Serve warm with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience.
For a fresh twist, layer the cake with sliced strawberries or raspberries and a dollop of yogurt or mascarpone cheese. You can also drizzle it with honey or a tangy fruit compote to add depth and balance the sweetness.
Pair a slice with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. Looking for more dessert inspiration?
Check out our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe or the creamy sweetness of the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
Conclusion
Our vegetarian butter cake recipe is a delicious testament that you don’t need eggs to create a rich, moist, and buttery cake. Its straightforward ingredients and simple preparation make it accessible for all bakers, while its wonderful texture and flavor make it a timeless classic.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy a sweet moment, this cake delivers every time. Remember, baking is as much about love and creativity as it is about technique, so feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors and toppings.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love the comforting warmth of our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe – perfect for a savory meal after your sweet treat!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegetarian Butter Cake
Description: A rich and moist butter cake perfect for any occasion. This vegetarian recipe uses simple ingredients for a classic buttery flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
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
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and lemon zest if using.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 38 g
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