Why Make This Recipe

French butter cake is a delightful treat that is both simple to bake and incredibly delicious. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply treating yourself. This cake is moist, buttery, and has a rich flavor that makes it a favorite among many baking enthusiasts. You’ll love how it fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma while it bakes!

How to Make French Butter Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easier release.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer. Beat for about 3–5 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps maintain the emulsion and builds structure in the batter.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
6. Pour in the milk, and mix until smooth. Do not overbeat—the goal is to create a tender batter without tough gluten development.
7. Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the cake is golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with powdered sugar, or serve plain for the full flavor experience.

How to Serve French Butter Cake

You can serve this French butter cake in a variety of ways! It’s wonderful on its own, but you can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or whipped cream for an extra treat. Fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream can enhance the experience, making it a lovely dessert for any gathering.

How to Store French Butter Cake

Keep your cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last about three days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it!

Tips to Make French Butter Cake

1. Use room temperature eggs and butter for the best results. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
2. Make sure to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake.
3. Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. It’s crucial to mix just until combined to avoid toughening the cake.

Variation

If you wish to add some flavor to your French butter cake, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, during the mixing process. You could also fold in chocolate chips or nuts for an added texture, or create a simple glaze for a shiny finish.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may slightly alter the taste. Just omit the added salt in the recipe.

2. Can I replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour mix. Make sure it’s a 1:1 baking substitute for best results.

3. How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If there’s batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes.

French Butter Cake

A delightful and moist butter cake that is perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine French

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use room temperature for best results.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature Bring to room temperature for better mixing.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour Measure correctly to avoid a dry cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt Omit if using salted butter.
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream Use whole milk for a richer taste.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easier release.
• Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer for about 3–5 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
• Pour in the milk and mix until smooth, avoiding overbeating.
• Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Baking

• Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the cake is golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Dust with powdered sugar, or serve plain.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Keyword Baking, butter cake, Dessert Recipe, French Butter Cake

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