Classic Vanilla Butter Cake with Buttermilk Sauce
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Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the melted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth and fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 10-inch baking pan or bundt pan with oil or non-stick spray.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Buttermilk Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, cubed butter, and water.
- Stir continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is fully melted.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cake is slightly cooled, run a knife around the edges of the pan and invert it onto a wire rack placed over a sheet of waxed paper.
- Use a skewer or fork to poke small holes all over the cake.
- Drizzle ¼ cup of the buttermilk sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Let the cake rest for 15–20 minutes to absorb the sauce fully.