Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla essence.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold them into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until smooth and well combined.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve plain, or dust with powdered sugar for extra elegance.
