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 granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakehouse

I absolutely love baking, especially when it comes to simple recipes that fill my kitchen with delightful aromas. This Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf is one of my go-to recipes because it combines basic ingredients into a moist, delicious bread that everyone enjoys. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a special occasion, this loaf never fails to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—just a few tweaks can make it your own!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:01:36.302Z

Baking this Simple Butter Vanilla Loaf became a sort of therapeutic ritual for me. There's something soothing about mixing together butter, sugar, and vanilla that brings back fond memories. As I fold the flour into the batter, I find that keeping the ingredients at room temperature enhances the loaf's texture. This allows the butter to cream perfectly, ensuring it rises beautifully in the oven.

I love to experiment with the loaf's flavor by adding a hint of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Each variation brings its own charm, but the classic vanilla remains a family favorite. I often serve it warm with a pat of butter, making it a comforting treat during gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor with a buttery finish
Simple ingredients that are easy to find
Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in this loaf relies heavily on the creaming technique. When you cream the softened butter with sugar, aim for a light and fluffy consistency. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for a tender crumb. Be patient and make sure to beat the mixture until it appears pale in color—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.

Additionally, make sure not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mix just until the ingredients are blended to avoid developing too much gluten, which can lead to a dense loaf. The batter should be smooth but might still have a few small lumps—this is perfectly normal.

Ingredient Insights

Using unsalted butter is essential for controlling the salt level in this recipe. Depending on the brand, salted butter can vary significantly in saltiness, which may throw off the balance of flavors. If you have only salted butter at hand, consider reducing the added salt slightly to compensate or using a little more sugar to balance out the flavors.

The richness of the eggs plays a vital role not just in flavor but also in the moisture content of the loaf. For a lighter loaf, you could experiment with replacing one egg with applesauce or mashed banana. This can alter the flavor slightly, offering a subtle fruitiness while keeping the loaf moist.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to start baking your loaf.

Ingredients

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

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your loaf perfectly.

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 the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding the vanilla extract until well blended.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until everything is fully 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

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy this delicious loaf with your favorite spread or on its own!

Pro Tips

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture. You can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This butter vanilla loaf is excellent for making ahead. You can bake it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop overnight, which often makes it even more delicious. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices; they can be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and kept in the freezer for up to three months.

To revive the loaf after freezing, simply let it thaw at room temperature, then pop slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. You'll regain that freshly baked texture and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This loaf is delightful on its own, but to elevate it further, consider pairing it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top right before serving adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness.

For a breakfast twist, slice the loaf and toast the pieces lightly. Spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or butter on top makes it a hearty start to your day. You can also drizzle honey or your favorite jam for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter with something else?

Yes, you can use margarine or a dairy-free spread as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze this loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with this loaf?

This loaf is delightful with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or your favorite jam.