There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of melting butter mingling with sugar and flour in the air. As I prepared to whip up this French Butter Cake, the blend of buttery richness and sweet vanilla promises a slice of indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon with coffee or celebrating with friends, this quick dessert beautifully balances simplicity and sophistication.
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe while searching for a treat that would impress guests without slaving away in the kitchen. Imagine a cake so tender it practically melts in your mouth, with a golden crust that adds a delightful crunch—this French Butter Cake delivers all that and more. Plus, it’s vegetarian and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for even the busiest of home cooks. Let’s dive into this butter-rich delight that’s sure to enchant your taste buds!
Why is this French Butter Cake Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity: The recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Irresistible Flavor: A rich buttery taste, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of sugar and a hint of vanilla.
Quick Dessert: Ready in just 35-40 minutes, this cake is perfect for those last-minute cravings!
Versatile Base: Enjoy it as is or elevate it with fresh fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of icing for a personalized touch.
Crowd Pleaser: Delight your guests or family with a dessert that impresses in both looks and taste, making any gathering memorable!
French Butter Cake Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for this delightful French Butter Cake recipe.
For the Batter
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; substitute with brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted – Provides richness and moisture; can use salted butter, but reduce added salt by half.
- 3 eggs, room temperature – Eggs help with structure and moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- 2 cups cake flour – Gives a light, tender crumb; can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Necessary leavening agent for the cake’s lightness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor, reducing the sweetness perception.
- ⅔ cup sour cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang; substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar effect.
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Creates a sweet, slightly crunchy crust on top for an appealing finish.
How to Make French Butter Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly golden.
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Mix together the sugar and melted butter in a large mixing bowl for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and airy. This step is crucial for achieving that rich buttery flavor.
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Incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time. Mix well after each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract—your batter will start to smell deliciously sweet.
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Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix; a gentle fold is all that’s needed for the perfect texture.
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Fold in the sour cream with care until just combined. This will keep your cake moist and add a lovely tang to balance the sweetness.
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Transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of sugar. This topping will create a delightful sweet crust.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’re looking for a lightly golden top, which is the sign of a perfectly baked cake!
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Cool slightly before slicing and serving, allowing the cake to firm up just a bit while maintaining its warm, buttery essence.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This French Butter Cake recipe is absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which helps to meld the flavors beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into your greased baking dish and bake as instructed. If you’re looking to enjoy this delightful cake later, it can be baked ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain its freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Simply warm the slices in the oven for a few minutes before serving, and you’ll have that just-baked taste, making it as delicious as ever!
Expert Tips for French Butter Cake
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Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light and tender texture. Gentle folding is key for the best French Butter Cake.
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Pan Size Matters: If using a different baking dish size, adjust the baking time accordingly. Check doneness with a toothpick to avoid an undercooked center.
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Flavor Boost: Enhance your cake by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a subtle spice flavor that pairs perfectly with butter.
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Storage Know-How: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.
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Sweeten the Top: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle a little extra sugar before baking. It adds a wonderful texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
French Butter Cake Variations
Feel free to explore delightful updates to this classic French Butter Cake that will tickle your taste buds and bring joy to your kitchen!
- Fruity Twist: Fold in fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. The tangy sweetness of the fruit complements the buttery cake beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for extra texture and a lovely crunch. This variation provides a delightful contrast to the soft crumb of the cake.
- Decadent Frosting: Serve with chocolate ganache or a light vanilla glaze for a more indulgent dessert experience. Imagine that rich glaze drizzling over each slice—pure bliss!
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version, although be aware this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Try pairing with a fruity glaze for a fresh twist!
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, to diversify the flavor profile. A drop of almond extract will bring a lovely nuttiness that plays well with the cake’s richness.
- Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg directly into the batter for a warm, inviting spiced flavor. This simple addition can transform your cake into a comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings.
- Orange Zest: Incorporate some fresh orange zest into the batter to introduce a bright citrus note. The zesty aroma will energize your kitchen as it bakes!
- Caramel Drizzle: Top each slice with a warm caramel sauce for a decadent finish that adds both sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Who could resist a drizzle of caramel on that golden crust?
What to Serve with French Butter Cake?
To create a wonderfully inviting meal experience, consider pairing this rich cake with delightful accompaniments that enhance its buttery goodness.
- Fresh Berries: The tangy sweetness of strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite of your cake.
- Whipped Cream: Smooth and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the cake to an elegant dessert experience, inviting you to savor every moment.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness complements the warm, tender cake beautifully, offering a delightful temperature contrast that makes every slice extra special.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or fragrant herbal tea makes for an ideal beverage pairing, balancing the cake’s richness while enhancing its flavors.
- Chocolate Ganache: For those seeking indulgence, a drizzle of silky chocolate ganache can add a luxurious touch, making the experience even more decadent.
- Lemon Curd: A spoonful of tart lemon curd infuses brightness and acidity, creating a delightful contrast that cuts through the cake’s lusciousness.
- Chopped Nuts: Adding toasted slivers of almonds or pecans provides a lovely crunch, bringing additional texture while complementing the buttery notes of the cake.
- Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, serve the cake with a dollop of rich coconut cream, infusing each bite with a delightfully creamy and exotic flavor.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint not only brightens the presentation but also adds a refreshing aromatic element that enhances the overall flavor experience.
How to Store and Freeze French Butter Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its rich buttery flavor and moist texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cake, where it will stay good for up to a week. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Wrap the French Butter Cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: If you like it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy that heavenly buttery taste all over again!
French Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the French Butter Cake?
I recommend using unsalted butter in this French Butter Cake recipe to control the salt level. However, if you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe by half. This allows you to enjoy that rich, buttery flavor without any overwhelming saltiness.
How can I tell if my eggs are at room temperature?
To bring your eggs to room temperature quickly, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Room temperature eggs integrate smoothly into the batter, ensuring your French Butter Cake has the perfect texture.
How long can I store leftover French Butter Cake?
Store your French Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure it’s airtight to keep it moist!
Can I freeze the French Butter Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your French Butter Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight, and it’s good to go!
What should I do if my French Butter Cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing. Make sure to gently fold the ingredients together rather than beating them vigorously. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as old leavening agents can affect how well your cake rises.
Is this French Butter Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
This cake is vegetarian, but if you’re looking to accommodate vegan diets, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Always check for any allergies with specific ingredients like dairy based on your guest’s needs!
Irresistible French Butter Cake Recipe for Easy Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- Mix together the sugar and melted butter in a large mixing bowl for about 1 minute until light and airy.
- Incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet ingredients.
- Fold in the sour cream until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before slicing and serving.