A classic sugar-crusted vanilla loaf cake is one of the most comforting homemade desserts you can prepare. With its soft, buttery interior and lightly crisp sugar topping, this simple cake delivers a perfect balance of texture and flavor. It is ideal for breakfast, afternoon coffee, or a light dessert after dinner. This timeless recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and produces a moist, tender loaf every time.
The beauty of a vanilla loaf cake lies in its simplicity. The rich butter flavor, combined with gentle sweetness and a delicate crumb, makes it a favorite for both beginners and experienced bakers. The sugar crust adds a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Ingredients
To make this classic sugar-crusted vanilla loaf cake, you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and moist loaf cake with a golden crust.
Preparation Method
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf pan and lightly dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step helps create a soft texture in the finished cake.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix gently until the batter becomes smooth and fully combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining sugar over the top of the batter to create the signature sugar crust.
Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown with a slightly crisp texture.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
This vanilla loaf cake can be served in many ways. It is delicious on its own, but you can also add fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a light glaze for extra flavor.
Serve slices with coffee, tea, or warm milk for a comforting treat. The cake also works well as a simple dessert for gatherings or family meals.
Lightly toasting a slice and spreading a small amount of butter on top creates an even richer experience.
Baking Tips
Using room-temperature butter and eggs helps the batter mix more evenly and improves the cake’s texture. Always measure flour carefully to avoid adding too much, which can make the loaf dry.
Do not open the oven door frequently while baking, as sudden temperature changes may cause the cake to sink in the center.
If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil during the final minutes of baking.
For extra flavor, you can add lemon zest, orange zest, or a small amount of almond extract to the batter.
Storage Instructions
Store the vanilla loaf cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It can also be refrigerated for up to five days while maintaining its moisture.
To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This sugar-crusted vanilla loaf cake recipe is reliable because it uses a balanced ratio of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. The milk keeps the crumb soft, while the baking powder ensures a light rise.
The sugar topping caramelizes slightly during baking, creating a delicate crunch that enhances the overall texture. The vanilla flavor remains warm and inviting without overpowering the cake.
Because the recipe is simple and flexible, it can be adapted with different flavors or toppings while still producing consistent results. The combination of a moist interior and crisp sugar crust makes this loaf cake a timeless addition to any kitchen.
Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or served the next day, this classic vanilla loaf cake offers comfort, simplicity, and delicious homemade flavor in every slice.
