Ingredients
For the Cake:
3 tablespoons melted butter
2/3 cup sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla puree
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
For the Buttermilk Sauce:
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup (60 ml) cubed butter
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or your preferred cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and melted butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and aromatic.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry mixture, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.
Bake the Cake:
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Buttermilk Sauce:
8. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cubed butter, water, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Do not boil.
9. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Serve:
10. Slice the cake and drizzle the warm buttermilk sauce over each serving. Enjoy this tender, flavorful dessert with a cup of coffee or tea!