Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or tube pan to ensure that the cake comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, and it’s crucial for creating a light texture in the cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate the eggs evenly into the batter and avoid curdling. Stir in the vanilla extract once all the eggs are mixed in.
Step 4: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, helping the cake rise properly.