Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour and granulated sugar. Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients evenly, creating a visual uniform mixture.
2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar
Add the melted butter to the dry mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with visible butter streaks.
1/2 cup unsalted butter
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well blended, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy, indicating thorough mixing.
3 large eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently but thoroughly until just combined. The batter should be smooth with no dry flour pockets visible.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should smell buttery and sweet as it bakes.
