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+ servings

Brown Butter Vanilla Cake

A rich, moist vanilla sheet cake elevated by the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter, which is incorporated into the batter for exceptional depth of flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 53 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Cakes, Dessert

Ingredients
  

  • All-purpose flour: 2 cups
  • Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
  • Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Unsalted butter 2 sticks: 1 cup
  • Granulated sugar: 1 1/2 cups
  • Large eggs: 4
  • Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Pan
  • Medium Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Electric Mixer (handheld or stand)
  • Whisk
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1 cup butter. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Combine Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined.
  5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. Finish Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  7. Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Richer Flavor: Try adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Indulgent Treat: For a complete dessert, frost the cooled cake with cream cheese frosting.
Lighter Version: Substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a slightly lighter cake.
Buttermilk Substitute: Use 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar mixed with 1 cup of milk if buttermilk is unavailable.

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