Mini Butter Cakes: A Delicate, Buttery Treat

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Introduction

Few desserts capture the essence of simple, comforting baking quite like Mini Butter Cakes. These petite, golden cakes are soft, moist, and rich with buttery flavor, making them perfect for tea time, dessert platters, or an elegant individual treat. With just a handful of basic ingredients—butter, sugar, eggs, and flour—this recipe yields a delicate crumb and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

What makes these cakes special is their versatility and ease. Whether baked in a muffin tin, small ramekins, or as a single loaf, they come together quickly and require no fancy techniques. The vanilla essence enhances the buttery notes, while the perfect ratio of ingredients ensures a light, tender texture every time.

Ideal for gifting, afternoon tea, or a last-minute dessert, these Mini Butter Cakes are a testament to how classic, unfussy baking can yield extraordinary results.

The Recipe: Mini Butter Cakes

Ingredients

  • 100 grams (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
  • 100 grams (½ cup) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ tsp vanilla essence (or vanilla extract)
  • 120 grams (1 cup) plain flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Zest of 1 lemon (for brightness)
  • 1 tbsp poppy seeds (for texture)
  • 1 tbsp rum or brandy (for depth)

Instructions

1. Prep and Preheat

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 6-cup muffin tin or 4 small ramekins (or line with parchment paper).

2. Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla essence.

4. Fold in Dry Ingredients

  • Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt (if using).
  • Gently fold until just combined (do not overmix).

5. Bake

  • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cups (fill ¾ full).
  • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve

  • Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature with:
  • Dusting of powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries and whipped cream
  • Lemon glaze (mix ½ cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp lemon juice)

Tips for Perfect Mini Butter Cakes

✅ Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are not cold for a smooth batter.
🍋 Flavor Variations: Add citrus zest, almond extract, or spices like cardamom.
🍰 Pan Options: Bake in a loaf pan (adjust time to 30–35 mins) or as mini bundt cakes.
⏳ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer shelf life.

Conclusion

These Mini Butter Cakes are a celebration of simplicity—unpretentious yet deeply satisfying, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that highlights the magic of butter and vanilla. Whether enjoyed as a light dessert, breakfast pastry, or edible gift, their delicate flavor and petite size make them endlessly appealing.

Whip up a batch to savor with coffee, share at gatherings, or stash in the freezer for spontaneous sweet cravings. Once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!

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