Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf

Name: Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk

Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes

I love to bake, and this Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf is one of my absolute favorites. It’s straightforward to make and creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. On days when I'm looking for a comforting treat, this loaf brings a sense of nostalgia and happiness. The buttery flavor combined with the rich vanilla really shines through, making it a delightful choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Trust me, once you make this loaf, it will become a go-to recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:45:36.614Z

Baking this Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf has become a cherished ritual in my home. The combination of ingredients is so simple yet yields a surprisingly moist and flavorful loaf. Each slice feels like a gentle hug, perfect with a pat of butter or a cup of tea. I’ve found that creaming the butter and sugar well ensures the loaf rises beautifully and stays fluffy.

One tip I’ve learned is to let the loaf sit for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together perfectly and results in a beautifully textured loaf. I can't recommend this recipe enough for its ease and deliciousness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Buttery richness that melts in your mouth
Warm vanilla aroma that fills the kitchen
Ideal for any time of day, from breakfast to dessert

Ingredient Insights

The key to achieving a rich buttery flavor in your Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf lies in using high-quality unsalted butter. I recommend choosing a brand with a higher fat content, as this not only enhances the loaf's flavor but also contributes to a tender crumb. The butter should be softened at room temperature, which makes it easier to incorporate air during the creaming process. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with margarine, but the flavor will differ.

Vanilla extract is another star ingredient in this recipe. Consider using pure vanilla extract for a more robust flavor compared to imitation vanilla. A fun alternative is to infuse the milk with vanilla by simmering it gently with a vanilla bean before allowing it to cool. This can elevate the aroma and taste of your loaf significantly, adding a gourmet touch that’s sure to impress.

Perfecting the Technique

When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a texture that is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes of mixing. This process introduces air into the batter, leading to a lighter loaf that has a delightful crumb. Be patient here; rushing this step can result in a denser texture. Pay attention to the color change—a pale yellow is indicative that you’ve incorporated enough air into the mixture.

For optimal results in baking, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. This applies to eggs and milk as well. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize, preventing a smooth mixture that bakes evenly. If you've forgotten to pull them from the fridge in advance, you can warm eggs under warm running water for a few minutes, while milk can be microwaved for about 10-15 seconds.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk

Gather all the ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider folding in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

Storing and Serving

Once your Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf has cooled completely, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. This way, when a craving hits, you can easily pop a slice in the toaster for a quick treat that tastes just as delicious as day one.

This loaf pairs beautifully with various toppings or accompaniments. A spread of softened cream cheese or a drizzle of icing can elevate it to a delightful dessert. Fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream also make for lovely additions, adding a contrast in flavor and texture that complements the buttery richness of the loaf.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your loaf comes out dense or heavy, it may be due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Carefully mix until just combined, as gluten development is what leads to a denser texture. Alternatively, check your baking powder for freshness; expired baking powder can result in insufficient rising.

Another common issue is baking time. Every oven varies, so if you find the top browning too quickly while the center remains undercooked, you can tent the loaf with aluminum foil for the final 10-15 minutes of baking. This traps heat without over-browning the top, ensuring your loaf is fully baked and evenly golden.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be substituted, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I know when the loaf is done?

The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

→ Can this loaf be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I do with leftover loaf?

Leftover loaf can be toasted and spread with butter or jam for a delicious snack!