There’s something truly heartwarming about the scent of a freshly baked cake wafting through the kitchen. This Classic French Butter Cake transports me to quaint patisseries in Paris, with its rich buttery notes and a golden, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting an elegant brunch or simply longing for an afternoon indulgence, this cake is a delightful treat that never disappoints. Crafted with simple yet quality ingredients, it showcases the magic of French baking traditions—elegant yet approachable.
As you slice into this cake, you’ll discover a beautifully balanced sweetness that’s perfect on its own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. It’s easy to whip up and versatile enough to pair with fresh fruit or crème fraîche, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Join me as we delve into creating this classic delight that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a touch of French elegance to your home!
Why is French Butter Cake a must-try?
Rich, Delectable Flavor: This cake is a true ode to butter, offering a flavor profile that’s elegantly rich yet not overwhelming.
Tender, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: With its fine crumb, the cake boasts a softness that lingers pleasantly on your palate.
Simple Preparation: The straightforward instructions make it a breeze for bakers of all skill levels to create a masterpiece.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed plain or paired with fruit compote, it’s perfect for a casual afternoon snack or a formal gathering.
Timeless Appeal: This classic French dessert elevates any occasion, making it a hit among family and friends. If you’re looking for more irresistible desserts that fit all events, be sure to check out my other recipes!
French Butter Cake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dessert!
For the Batter
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, 2 sticks) – Essential for richness; always use high-quality butter for maximum flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups) – Provides sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb; consider brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor.
- Large eggs (4, room temperature) – Adds structure and moisture; bring them to room temperature for better mixing.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the overall flavor; avoid imitation vanilla to keep it classic.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups) – Gives structure to the cake; use 1:1 gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Aids in leavening; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and elevates flavor; reduce if using salted butter.
- Whole milk or heavy cream (1/2 cup) – Adds moisture and creaminess; heavy cream makes for a denser, richer cake.
For Serving (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting) – Adds a touch of sweetness and elegance; serves as a lovely finish to your cake.
- Fresh fruit compote or crème fraîche (optional) – Perfect for pairing, enhancing the cake’s richness with refreshing contrast.
Enjoy creating this French Butter Cake that’s sure to impress!
How to Make French Butter Cake
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal later.
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Cream the Butter & Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender cake.
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Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a proper emulsion, which is key for the cake’s structure.
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Mix in Vanilla: Pour in the pure vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. The aroma will make your kitchen feel like a French patisserie!
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing at low speed to keep it light.
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Add Milk or Cream: Pour in the milk or heavy cream and blend until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture.
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Transfer to Cake Pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a beautiful dome.
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Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool in Pan: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This will help it firm up for easy removal.
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Serve and Enjoy: After cooling, transfer the cake to a wire rack and dust it with powdered sugar or serve it plain for an elegant finish.
Optional: For a delightful twist, serve with fresh fruit compote or a dollop of crème fraîche.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best French Butter Cake
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature. Cold butter can lead to a dense cake and hinder good creaming.
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Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the milk, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop too much gluten, resulting in a tougher texture for your French Butter Cake.
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Use Parchment Paper: Lining the cake pan with parchment paper is essential to prevent sticking. It allows for easy release and keeps your cake intact.
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Fresh Baking Powder: Always check the freshness of your baking powder; expired powder will affect the cake’s rise, leaving it flat instead of fluffy.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it firm up, making slicing easier and preventing crumbling.
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Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to enhance the flavor of your French Butter Cake. Just a little goes a long way!
Make Ahead Options
These French Butter Cake options are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can bake the cake a day ahead; just allow it to cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. For the best texture and flavor, bring the cake to room temperature before serving. This makes it perfect for a last-minute dessert option or to impress guests with minimal effort—your French Butter Cake will taste just as delicious as if freshly baked!
What to Serve with French Butter Cake?
To complete your delightful French Butter Cake experience, consider these delectable pairings that enhance its rich flavor and inviting texture.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a refreshing contrast to the cake’s buttery richness.
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Crème Fraîche: This tangy and creamy accompaniment perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, elevating each bite into a luxurious experience.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that complements the cake’s tender crumb beautifully.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee provide a warm, inviting counterpoint to the cake, creating a cozy moment reminiscent of a French café.
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Lemon Curd: A dollop of zesty lemon curd brightens the palate, enhancing the cake with a burst of citrusy goodness. A match made in heaven!
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Almond Extract Drizzle: Create a simple glaze with powdered sugar and almond extract for a sweet finish that accentuates the cake’s flavors while adding a lovely sheen.
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Chocolate Sauce: For those chocolate lovers, a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can turn this classic French delight into an indulgent treat.
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Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes of Earl Grey tea provide a sophisticated drink pairing, harmonizing with the cake while offering a calming aroma.
Each of these options not only enhances your French Butter Cake but also adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience!
French Butter Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your French Butter Cake with these delightful twists!
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Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with rich butteriness. It’ll awaken your taste buds!
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Almond Extract: Substitute a teaspoon of almond extract for vanilla for a subtle, nutty depth. It adds a familiar warmth that is simply irresistible.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to cater to gluten sensitivities. It sometimes yields an equally delightful texture!
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite. Just imagine hitting that rich, chocolatey bliss!
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Berry Swirl: Fold in fresh raspberries or blueberries before baking for a fruity burst. They not only enhance flavor but add a beautiful color contrast too.
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Espresso Infusion: For coffee lovers, add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a mocha-like flavor that lingers on your palate.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on the batter’s surface for a delightful sweet crust. It transforms the texture and aroma!
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Nutty Texture: Chop up and add walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that complements the tender crumb of the cake. A nutty element brings your cake to the next level!
How to Store and Freeze French Butter Cake
Room Temperature: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Ensure it is covered with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to avoid drying out and to keep the flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the French Butter Cake for up to 3 months. Slice the cake before freezing and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake after freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature before serving. You can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if preferred.
French Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best butter for my French Butter Cake?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, always opt for high-quality unsalted butter. Look for brands that list cream as the only ingredient, as this ensures that you’re using pure butter without any additives. I recommend letting the butter sit out to soften at room temperature, as this allows for better creaming with sugar, leading to a tender cake texture.
How should I store French Butter Cake to keep it fresh?
The best way to store your cake is at room temperature; just make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This will keep it moist and allow it to stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week—just wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze French Butter Cake, and if so, what’s the best method?
Yes, you can freeze your French Butter Cake for up to 3 months! I recommend slicing the cake before freezing for easy serving later. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving!
What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very common! If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, the first thing to check is the freshness of your baking powder. Old or expired baking powder can lead to inadequate leavening. Always make sure it’s within its expiration date for the best results. Additionally, ensure you’ve creamed the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, as this incorporates air into the batter, aiding in the rise.
Is this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies?
For those who are gluten intolerant, you can make a gluten-free French Butter Cake by substituting regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Also, keep an eye out for potential allergies—if someone has a dairy allergy, consider using a dairy-free butter alternative and non-dairy milk. If you’re unsure, always check ingredients and make adjustments accordingly to ensure your cake is safe for everyone to enjoy!
Irresistible French Butter Cake: Rich Flavor Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal later.
- Cream the Butter & Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender cake.
- Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a proper emulsion, which is key for the cake's structure.
- Mix in Vanilla: Pour in the pure vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. The aroma will make your kitchen feel like a French patisserie!
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing at low speed to keep it light.
- Add Milk or Cream: Pour in the milk or heavy cream and blend until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture.
- Transfer to Cake Pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a beautiful dome.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in Pan: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This will help it firm up for easy removal.
- Serve and Enjoy: After cooling, transfer the cake to a wire rack and dust it with powdered sugar or serve it plain for an elegant finish.