Vanilla cake is a classic favorite for many, but what if you're out of butter or trying to reduce your intake? Luckily, you can still enjoy a moist, fluffy dessert using an easy cake recipe that doesn't require butter. In Calin’s article, we’ll explore how to make a cake without butter that’s light, tasty, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply out of butter, this guide to a butterless vanilla cake has got you covered. Let’s discover how to bake a cake without butter using simple pantry staples.
Why Bake a Cake without Butter?
There are several reasons you might want to try a cake recipe without butter:
1. Dietary Restrictions
People with lactose intolerance or those following a dairy-free or vegan diet often avoid butter. Using alternatives like oil or plant-based yogurt can make the cake suitable for everyone.
2. Health Conscious Choices
Butter is high in saturated fat. Swapping it for healthier oils (like olive oil or canola) can reduce the overall fat content and improve the nutritional profile.
3. Convenience
Sometimes, you just run out of butter. Rather than rushing to the store, you can still bake a delicious cake made without butter using ingredients you already have in your kitchen.
The Ingredients for butterless vanilla cake
To make a perfect vanilla cake recipe without butter, you don’t need any exotic ingredients. Everything you need is probably in your pantry already.
Main Ingredients:
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best for structure and texture.
- Sugar: Granulated white sugar gives sweetness and helps with browning.
- Baking Powder: Essential for leavening and fluffiness.
- Salt: Enhances flavor.
- Milk: Dairy or plant-based milk works fine.
- Vegetable Oil: Replaces butter and keeps the cake moist. You can use canola, sunflower, or even coconut oil.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide richness.
- Vanilla Extract: The star flavor of the cake.
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist
- Lemon zest for a zesty vanilla combo
vanilla cake without butter recipe
This easy cake recipe without butter yields a soft, fluffy, and flavorful cake that’s ready in about an hour.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 8–10 slices
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan.
- Mix dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. - Mix wet ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. - Combine:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—this helps keep your cake tender. - Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. - Cool:
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Tips
- Don't overmix the batter. Stir until ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Room temperature ingredients work best. They mix better and help the cake rise evenly.
- Use a light-colored baking pan to avoid over-browning the bottom.
- For a vegan version, use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and an egg substitute such as flax eggs or applesauce.
Pro Tip: Add 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk before adding it to the batter. It creates a buttermilk effect that enhances fluffiness.
Serving Suggestions
This butter-free vanilla cake is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:
- Frost it with Calin cream or dairy-free frosting.
- Top it with fresh fruits and a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of butter in a cake recipe?
You can replace butter with several ingredients depending on your goal. Common substitutes include:
- Vegetable oil (best for moisture)
- Applesauce (reduces fat and adds a natural sweetness)
- Greek yogurt or sour cream (adds richness and moisture)
- Coconut oil (adds flavor and fat content)
Each alternative may slightly affect the texture and flavor, but all work well in a basic cake recipe without butter.
Will a cake without butter still be moist and fluffy?
Yes! A well-balanced cake made without butter can be just as moist and fluffy as a traditional one. Oil-based cakes often stay moist longer because oil is 100% fat, while butter contains water. The key is to not overmix and to use the right amount of leavening agents.
Does a butter-free cake taste different?
A cake without butter has a slightly different texture and flavor. It may not have the rich, creamy undertones butter provides, but it can still be delicious. Using good-quality vanilla extract and fresh ingredients will ensure a delightful flavor.