French Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a classic dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make, this French Butter Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. With its delightfully rich, buttery crumb and just-right sweetness, this cake is the perfect companion for your morning coffee, an afternoon pick-me-up, or the centerpiece of your dessert table. You’ll love how pantry staples can create such sophisticated flavor and tender texture—it’s pure comfort, French-style, and you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this French Butter Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity: each ingredient has a distinct role, working together to create layers of flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to get the very best out of each component.

• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps create a delicate, golden crust.
• Unsalted butter (melted): The star of the show—melted butter infuses every bite with a rich, deep flavor and softness.
• Eggs (room temperature): Vital for structure and a tender crumb; room-temperature eggs blend into the batter seamlessly.
• Vanilla extract: Boosts that irresistible aroma and deepens the cake’s flavor profile—use pure vanilla for best results.
• Cake flour: Provides a soft, light texture that makes this cake truly delicate—if you don’t have cake flour, sift all-purpose flour for a similar effect.
• Baking powder: The lift in the cake comes from this, ensuring a fluffy, airy crumb every time.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and brightens every other flavor—don’t skip this tiny but mighty ingredient.
• Sour cream: Gives unbeatable moistness and a very slight tang, enhancing richness without heaviness.
• Granulated sugar (for topping): Sprinkled over the batter, it bakes up into a beautiful, crackly surface that’s a signature of classic French Butter Cake.

How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Begin by setting the stage for baking success: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly. This ensures your French Butter Cake Recipe releases easily, with all its edges perfectly intact and golden. Whether you use baking spray or a bit of butter and a dusting of flour, take a moment for this foundational step for best results.

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted butter. Beat them together for about one minute, until the mixture becomes light and airy. This step dissolves the sugar slightly and starts to build the smooth, tender structure this cake is known for.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next. Follow with the vanilla extract, mixing well. Room-temperature eggs blend smoothly, preventing lumps and helping the batter emulsify for that classic French cake texture.

Step 4: Sift the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only gets rid of lumps but also aerates the flour, which helps the cake bake up incredibly light and tender. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently—mix only until just combined for a delicate crumb.

Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream

Gently fold in the sour cream, being careful not to overmix. The sour cream adds luscious moisture and a subtle tang that balances the richness of the butter beautifully. At this point, the batter will be creamy and thick—just right for this recipe.

Step 6: Fill the Pan and Add the Sugar Topping

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Then, sprinkle the reserved two tablespoons of sugar over the top. This will create a lovely, crackly crust as it bakes, which is the hallmark of an authentic French Butter Cake Recipe.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cake is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before slicing into squares and serving. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is pure anticipation!

How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your French Butter Cake Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of softly whipped cream, or a scattering of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and juiciness. For a touch of elegance, a drizzle of light glaze or a few edible flowers will wow your guests and make dessert feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a warm mug of French roast coffee, delicate teas, or even a glass of cold milk. For something a little more indulgent, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a silky crème anglaise for a French bistro experience right at home.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into petite squares for a tea party, or try cutting it into triangles for a more dramatic look. Stack two small pieces with a layer of whipped cream and berries in between for a mini shortcake vibe. Alternatively, use fun-shaped cookie cutters for a playful twist that’s perfect for showers or celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The French Butter Cake Recipe stays moist, and the sugar topping keeps its gentle crunch if kept out of humid environments.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil or a freezer bag. This way, it keeps perfectly for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a couple of hours when you’re ready for a treat.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth and texture, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes the crumb and brings out the buttery aroma all over again!

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour in this French Butter Cake Recipe! For every cup of cake flour, use one cup of all-purpose flour minus two tablespoons and replace those tablespoons with cornstarch. Sift well to mimic the fine texture of cake flour.

Can I add fruit or nuts to the cake?

Absolutely! Fold in a handful of fresh berries, chocolate chips, or toasted nuts for a twist on the classic French Butter Cake Recipe. Just be sure not to add too much, as it may affect baking time and consistency.

What’s the best way to tell if the cake is done?

The classic toothpick test works perfectly. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your French Butter Cake Recipe is ready. The edges will also turn slightly golden and begin to pull away from the sides of the pan.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease your baking dish thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray, and if you like, line the bottom with parchment paper for foolproof removal. Letting the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing also helps keep it intact.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute your favorite gluten-free cake flour blend for the regular cake flour. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts

This French Butter Cake Recipe is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a joyful baking experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want something delicious for your afternoon coffee, this cake delivers every time. Give it a try; you’ll see just how simple and irresistible homemade French baking can be!

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