Moist Italian Butter Cake Recipe

Italian butter cake recipe is a rich, moist dessert I’ve baked countless times through my own kitchen journey. Inspired by classic bakery flavors, I added cream cheese to enhance moisture and softness.

My baking addiction led me to refine this recipe until it tasted just right golden outside, soft and buttery inside. This cake is deeply satisfying and sweet without being too heavy.

I’ve made it both bakery-style and with a few personal tweaks that make it mine. I’m ready to show you exactly how I prepare it step by step, just the way I’ve done many times before.

Moist Italian Butter Cake Recipe

Italian butter cake recipe is incredibly moist, tender, and rich with deep, buttery flavor in every bite that melts in your mouth.

The addition of cream cheese adds extra moisture, making every bite tender and smooth without being overly sweet. The crumb is tight and velvety, with just the right balance of richness and lightness.

A hint of vanilla brings warmth, while the golden crust gives a slight crispness that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.

Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, this Italian butter cake recipe delivers a comforting homemade taste that lingers long after the first slice.

How To Prepare Italian Butter Cake Recipe?

To make this Italian butter cake recipe just right, I’ll guide you through every step with clear instructions and helpful tips. I’ll also share the kitchen tools that make baking easier, though you don’t need them all to succeed.

Use what you have on hand, and you’ll still end up with a rich, moist, and delicious cake everyone will love.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Course: Dessert / Cake

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 10 servings

Kitchen Utensils

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch cake pan
• Cooling rack
• Sifter (for powdered sugar)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra moisture and tenderness)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

How To Make Italian Butter Cake Recipe

1. First, get your oven heating up to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, prepare your cake pan by greasing it well and dusting with flour, or just line it with parchment paper so the cake doesn’t stick.

2. Next, take a big bowl and beat the butter and sugar together. You can use an electric mixer or a hand whisk just keep going until the mix looks light and fluffy. This usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Now, add the eggs one at a time. After each egg, make sure to beat it in well before adding the next. Once all the eggs are in, stir in the vanilla and cream cheese until everything is smooth and mixed.

4. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Then, slowly add this dry mix to your butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with some flour, then some milk, and keep going until everything is combined. Be gentle but thorough you want a smooth, creamy batter.

5. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and even out the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean.

6. When it’s finished baking, let the cake sit in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully move it to a wire rack to cool completely before you dig in. Enjoy!

Notes: Make sure all your ingredients, especially eggs, butter, and milk, are at room temperature for the best texture. The cream cheese is optional but highly recommended for a richer, moister cake. This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

Nutrition Facts Of Italian Butter Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	36g
Sugars	22g
Protein	5g

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This Italian butter cake recipe is a must-try because of its rich flavor, moist texture, and the way it fills the kitchen with the aroma of real butter and vanilla.

The cream cheese gives it a soft, tender crumb that stays fresh for days. This is the kind of cake that reminds you of something your grandmother might have made homemade, comforting, and full of care.

The golden crust and melt-in-your-mouth center make it unforgettable. One slice leads to another, and before you know it, it’s a family favorite that always gets asked for again.

My Favorite Ways To Serve It Up

One of my favorite ways to serve Italian butter cake recipe is warm, straight from the oven, so the buttery aroma fills the room. I often sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a simple touch of sweetness.

Sometimes, I add fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries to brighten the flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream turns it into a delightful dessert.

On chilly days, serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea makes Italian butter cake recipe feel extra cozy and comforting. It’s always a crowd-pleaser however it’s served.

Health Benefits

Italian butter cake recipe is definitely a treat, it does offer some benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Eggs provide protein and essential vitamins, supporting muscle health and energy.

Butter contains fat-soluble vitamins like A and E, which help keep skin and eyes healthy. Using whole milk adds calcium for strong bones.

The cream cheese adds a bit of extra moisture along with some protein and calcium too. Moderation is key, but this cake can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet while satisfying sweet cravings without artificial additives.

Tips And Variations

1. Make sure all ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter come together smoothly, resulting in a tender and evenly baked cake without any lumps or uneven texture.

2. Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract can brighten the flavor and give the cake a subtle, fresh aroma that complements the richness of the butter and cream cheese beautifully.

3. Using buttermilk instead of whole milk adds a gentle tanginess and helps break down gluten slightly, making the crumb softer and more delicate while adding moisture.

4. To lighten the cake without losing richness, substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This adds moisture and a slight tang while reducing the overall fat content.

5. Incorporating fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even chocolate chips, adds bursts of flavor and texture. They create little pockets of sweetness and tartness inside the cake, making every bite a bit more exciting and colorful.

Additions And Substitutions

Additions:

• Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for a crunchy texture.
• Mix in citrus zest such as lemon or orange to brighten the flavor.
• Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries for bursts of natural sweetness.
• Swirl in a bit of cocoa powder or melted chocolate to create a chocolate version.

Substitutions:

• Use yogurt or sour cream instead of cream cheese for a slightly tangier, moist cake.
• Swap whole milk with buttermilk to enhance tenderness and add a subtle tang.
• Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk.

How Can I Add Flavor Variations To The Cake?

To infuse different flavors into your Italian butter cake recipe, consider adding:

• Lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Almond extract for a nutty aroma.
• Vanilla bean paste for a richer vanilla flavor.
• Cocoa powder for a chocolatey variation.

Storage & Make Ahead

Italian butter cake recipe stores well and can be made ahead to save time. Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist.

Italian butter cake recipe stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

The Italian butter cake recipe also freezes nicely wrap it well and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm slightly before enjoying.

FAQs For Italian Butter Cake Recipe

Conclusion

This delicious Italian butter cake recipe has quickly become one of my favorites to bake and enjoy. The rich, moist texture and buttery flavor make every slice truly special.

I loved how easy the process was, and I’m excited to share these simple steps with you so you can experience the same joy in your kitchen.

I hope this Italian butter cake recipe inspires you to bake and savor a homemade treat that brings warmth and happiness to your table just like it did for me.

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