- Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
Optional: Zest of 1 lemon or orange for flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract (and zest if using).
5. Add dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour into pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.