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Classic Butter Layer Cake

Classic Butter Layer Cake

Rich, buttery, and filled with silky vanilla cream, this Classic Butter Layer Cake is a timeless European dessert passed down through generations. Adapted from a traditional Latvian cookbook, it's the perfect centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: European
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 300 g butter, softened
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Vanilla Cream
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Vanilla extract or vanilla sugar, to taste
  • 200 g butter, softened
  • Sugar, to taste

Method
 

Make the Cake

  1. Cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add the milk and mix into a smooth dough.
  3. Wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
  4. Divide the dough into 4–6 equal portions.
  5. Roll each portion into a thin round about 3 mm thick.
  6. Bake each layer in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) until lightly golden.
  7. Allow the layers to cool completely.

Prepare the Apple Filling (Optional)

  1. Cook the diced apples with the sugar and water until soft and thickened.
  2. Cool completely

Make the Vanilla Cream

  1. Whisk the eggs with sugar.
  2. Stir in the flour and vanilla.
  3. Heat the milk until almost boiling.
  4. Slowly whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture.
  5. Return to low heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
  6. Cool completely.
  7. Beat the butter until fluffy.
  8. Gradually beat the cooled custard into the butter.
  9. Stir in brandy if using.

Assemble

  1. Spread vanilla cream between each cake layer.
  2. Add the apple filling to one layer if desired.
  3. Stack the layers evenly.
  4. Cover the top with cream.
  5. Dust generously with powdered sugar.
  6. Chill for several hours before slicing.

Notes

Optional Filling

  • 500 g tart apples, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp sugar

Optional

  • Powdered sugar for decorating
  • 1 tsp brandy or cognac (optional, stirred into the cream)
 
  1. The cake is even better the next day after the layers soften.
  2. Apple filling is optional but traditional.
  3. Fresh berries also make a lovely addition.