As the warm aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to a quaint Parisian café where every bite of a classic French Butter Cake reveals a story of simplicity yet elegance. This French Butter Cake recipe offers a delightful escape from fast food chaos, bringing a slice of homemade comfort into your life. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for both a spontaneous afternoon treat or the star of your next gathering. With its buttery richness and tender crumb, this cake perfectly balances sweetness, delighting every palate. Whether you pair it with a cup of coffee or serve it at brunch, I promise it will impress! Want to know how to make this simple yet timeless delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is French Butter Cake so special?
Decadent richness: This cake is a celebration of buttery goodness that melts in your mouth, transporting you to gourmet bakeries.
Simple preparation: No complicated techniques here—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers!
Elevates any occasion: Whether it’s a casual coffee date or a festive brunch, it’s bound to impress your guests.
Delightfully versatile: Pair it with fruit compotes or serve plain; this cake easily adapts to suit your cravings.
Make-ahead magic: It gets better with time, making it a fantastic dessert to prepare ahead for busy days.
If you’re looking for more delightful treats, check out my Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe for a classic favorite!
French Butter Cake Ingredients
• Prepare to indulge in this French Butter Cake recipe that will bring joy with every bite!
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; using high-quality butter ensures the best taste.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- Eggs – Act as a binder for structure and moisture; remember to use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; opt for pure extract over imitation for an authentic taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cake its body and structure; you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure your cake rises beautifully.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Whole Milk or Heavy Cream – Moistens the batter appropriately; adjust according to your preference for richness.
This scrumptious French Butter Cake recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a love letter to simplicity and flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you ready a 9-inch round cake pan. Grease the pan thoroughly with unsalted butter, ensuring to cover the sides and bottom well. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. This preparation sets the stage for your French Butter Cake to bake beautifully and release effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The texture should be airy, and the color will lighten significantly, which indicates that the creaming process is on the right track for your French Butter Cake.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Next, add the room temperature eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition until fully incorporated. This should take about 2 minutes. The batter may appear slightly curdled initially, but don’t worry; it will come together beautifully by the time you’re finished adding all the eggs, enhancing the richness of your French Butter Cake.
Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
Pour in the pure vanilla extract and mix until well combined. This fragrant addition will deepen the flavor profile of your batter. Keep the mixer running on low speed, allowing the essence to blend smoothly without overmixing, which is crucial for achieving a tender crumb in your French Butter Cake.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt, ensuring your cake rises evenly. Sifting the flour isn’t necessary, but if you prefer, it can help eliminate lumps, setting a strong foundation for your French Butter Cake batter.
Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Blend until just combined; avoid overmixing. This process should take about 1-2 minutes, and the batter should start looking smooth and cohesive. Ensuring the batter is mixed enough while still being gently combined protects the soft texture of your French Butter Cake.
Step 7: Add Milk or Cream
Pour in the whole milk or heavy cream, and mix gently until the batter is smooth. This addition will add moisture to your French Butter Cake, making it rich and tender. Aim for a liquid batter consistency, which should take just about 30-60 seconds, ensuring no lumps remain for a perfect finish.
Step 8: Transfer the Batter
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Smooth the top of the batter for an even rise. The visual cue should be a glossy surface, ready to bake; this attention to detail will ensure that your French Butter Cake has an even texture and pleasing appearance.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes. The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking; this will secure the moistness and perfect crumb of your French Butter Cake.
Step 10: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove your cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the cake to settle, ensuring it holds its structure and doesn’t become soggy at the bottom, preserving the delightful texture of your French Butter Cake.
How to Store and Freeze French Butter Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and tenderness.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For freezing, slice the cake into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, simply microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds or pop it in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes. This will rejuvenate the lovely buttery flavor of your French Butter Cake.
Make Ahead Options
These French Butter Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to deepen before baking. For optimal results, store the batter in an airtight container to prevent drying and ensure it stays fresh. If you prefer to bake the cake ahead of time, you can do so and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture and quality. When ready to serve, dust with powdered sugar or pair it with fresh fruit for an easy, impressive dessert that tastes just as delightful as when freshly baked!
What to Serve with Classic French Butter Cake?
The warm, buttery delight of this cake invites an array of delightful pairings to create a memorable meal experience.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries contrasts beautifully with the cake’s sweetness, enhancing a fresh flavor profile. Their vibrant color also adds an appealing visual element to your dessert presentation.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a creamy, airy lightness that perfectly complements the dense cake. It’s like wrapping the buttery slice in a velvety embrace!
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Custard Sauce: A drizzle of warm vanilla custard adds a personal touch. Its rich, silky texture melds with the cake, making each bite feel indulgent and luxurious.
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or crème brûlée ice cream creates a delicious temperature contrast, making the cake even more enjoyable. The melting ice cream combined with the warm cake is pure bliss in every bite.
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Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent twist, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the cake. The luscious chocolate adds depth and richness that offsets the buttery sweetness beautifully.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances the enjoyment of your cake. The warmth and slight bitterness of these beverages balance the sweetness, creating a perfectly rounded experience.
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Fruit Compote: Serve with a homemade fruit compote to introduce a burst of flavors. Mixed berries, cooked down with a hint of sugar, provide a deliciously tangy contrast to the richness of the cake.
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Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a simple elegance while countering the sweetness. It’s like a quick whisper of sweetness that brings this cake to a stunning finish.
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Sparkling Wine: For a festive touch, pair with a glass of sparkling wine. The bubbles cleanse the palate while enhancing the overall flavor experience with each bite of cake.
French Butter Cake Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this French Butter Cake to your taste buds!
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Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing twist that complements the buttery flavors beautifully. A hint of citrus can elevate the cake’s elegance, making every bite a little sunshine.
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Almond Extract: Swap out half the vanilla extract for almond extract to infuse a nutty undertone that enhances the overall flavor profile. This twist adds a depth that offers a delightful surprise with each slice.
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Fruit-Infused: Toss in fresh berries or chopped apples into the batter for a fruity surprise. The juicy burst of fruit not only adds flavor but also introduces a lovely texture contrast that can make your cake feel like a special dessert.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to add a satisfying crunch. This variation lends a comforting, homey touch, inviting a lovely interplay between buttery soft cake and nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your French Butter Cake by drizzling with melted dark chocolate after it cools. This rich addition brings a luxurious element that transforms your cake into a true indulgence.
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Spiced Option: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm the flavor profile. This subtle spice can evoke a sense of cozy comfort, perfect for sharing on chilly days.
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Dairy-Free Alternative: For a dairy-free twist, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk. It will create a different profile but still provide a delicious, moist cake!
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Serve with a Twist: Pair with crème fraîche or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated presentation. Serving your cake with a rich topping adds an unforgettable layer of flavor, making your dessert truly restaurant-worthy.
Remember, just like in my beloved Coconut Loaf Cake, each variation you try will tell a different story and further enrich your baking journey. Enjoy the creativity!
Expert Tips for French Butter Cake Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, fluffy texture desired in a French Butter Cake.
- Check for Doneness: Begin checking your cake at the 40-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean; don’t wait for it to darken too much.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract. This will significantly elevate the flavor of your French Butter Cake.
- Bake in the Center: Place the cake in the middle of the oven for even baking, avoiding hot spots that could lead to uneven rising.
French Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the French Butter Cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your cake and enhances the rich, buttery flavor that makes this French Butter Cake stand out.
How do I know if my eggs are at room temperature?
Very good question! To bring your eggs to room temperature quickly, submerge them in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them blend more smoothly into the batter, ensuring a lighter texture in your French Butter Cake.
How should I store my French Butter Cake?
To keep your cake at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week, but let it return to room temperature before serving for optimal texture!
Can I freeze my French Butter Cake?
Of course! To freeze your French Butter Cake, slice it into individual portions, then tightly wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my cake rises unevenly?
If your French Butter Cake doesn’t rise evenly, it could be due to hot spots in your oven. Make sure to position the cake in the center of the oven for even baking and always check that your baking powder is fresh before use. Coming up to room temperature with the other ingredients can also help with even rising.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Indeed! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Many blends work well in cakes, but do consider testing a few to find one that matches your taste. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly, as gluten-free cakes can often bake a little faster!
Indulge in Heaven with this French Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the pure vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pour in the milk or cream, mix gently until the batter is smooth.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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