This French Butter Cake recipe is a delightful treat that embodies rich flavors and a moist texture.
Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual coffee break or a festive dessert table, this cake stands out for its simplicity and the use of pantry staples. You’ll love how easily it comes together, making it an ideal choice for bakers of all levels.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious cake without fuss.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and vanilla creates a decadent taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruit—this cake adapts to your meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weekday treat, this French Butter Cake fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With 12–16 slices per recipe, it’s perfect for sharing.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking this French Butter Cake, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to comfortably mix all ingredients without spills.
- Rubber spatula: This tool helps to fold in delicate ingredients like sour cream without deflating the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cake texture.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping
How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Sugar and Butter
In a large bowl:
1. Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup melted unsalted butter.
2. Mix on medium speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and airy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time:
1. Crack each egg into the mixture, allowing it to blend well before adding the next.
2. Pour in 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
1. Sift together 2 cups cake flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream
Gently fold in ⅔ cup sour cream. This step ensures your cake remains moist with a tender crumb.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into your greased baking dish:
1. Smooth the top with your spatula.
2. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, which adds a sweet crust when baked.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 30–35 minutes.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked:
1. Let the cake cool slightly in the dish.
2. Slice into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy this French Butter Cake as an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe
French Butter Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or dressed up, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.
Classic Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Berries: Serve slices with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing this buttery cake with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful warm-and-cold experience.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cake for an indulgent twist.
Coffee Pairings
- Espresso: Enjoy a slice of cake with a shot of espresso for a classic coffee break treat.
- Cappuccino: The creamy foam of a cappuccino balances the rich flavors of the French Butter Cake beautifully.
Festive Touches
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant look.
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest on top to add a zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
How to Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe
To ensure your French Butter Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, baking powder, and salt helps create a lighter cake by removing lumps.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix until just combined to prevent dense cake; it should be fluffy and tender.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s accuracy, as baking requires precision.
- Cool Properly: Let the cake cool slightly before slicing to prevent crumbling and maintain its shape.
Best Side Dishes for French Butter Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your French Butter Cake can enhance its enjoyment. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the cake’s richness.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delightful crunch alongside your dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully with the butteriness of the cake; consider brie or goat cheese.
- Coffee or Tea: Hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea complement the flavors beautifully for dessert time.
- Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These provide a crunchy contrast that enhances each bite of cake.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Pour warm caramel sauce over both sides for extra sweetness and flavor depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a French Butter Cake can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
- Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better and help achieve a smoother batter. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure consistent results. Baking is precise!
- Skipping the cooling period: Allow your cake to cool slightly before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.
Freezing French Butter Cake Recipe
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating French Butter Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this French Butter Cake recipe.
What is a French Butter Cake Recipe?
A French Butter Cake Recipe is a rich dessert made primarily from butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, resulting in a moist and tender crumb.
How do I know when my French Butter Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when the cake is fully baked.
Can I add flavors to the French Butter Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder for different flavor profiles.
How long does it take to make this French Butter Cake Recipe?
The total time is about 45 minutes, including preparation and baking.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Yes! This cake is perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings due to its simple yet delicious nature.
Final Thoughts
This French Butter Cake recipe offers an irresistible combination of rich flavor and tender texture that appeals to all dessert lovers. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether you enjoy it plain or jazzed up with your favorite toppings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with flavors you love—give this delightful cake a try today!
French Butter Cake
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of our French Butter Cake Recipe, a tender and moist dessert that is sure to impress. This cake is characterized by its rich buttery flavor and soft crumb, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual coffee breaks to festive gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll find it easy to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Serve it plain or elevate it with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream for an elegant touch. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises satisfying results every time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and melted butter; mix on medium speed until light and airy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition; then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top, and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean; allow cooling slightly before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
