The aroma of a freshly baked French Butter Cake wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine slicing into its golden, buttery exterior to unveil a soft, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. This delightful treat is an invitation to indulge in moments of pure bliss.
Every bite of this cake transports you back to sun-soaked afternoons spent at charming French patisseries, where sweet pastries and laughter fill the air. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a spontaneous dessert craving, this cake promises an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French Butter Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any baking novice.
- Its rich flavor profile balances sweetness with buttery goodness, creating a delightful treat.
- The cake’s beautiful golden hue makes it visually appealing for any occasion.
- Enjoy it plain or dress it up with fruit, cream, or chocolate for versatility.
I remember the first time I made this French Butter Cake; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how decadent it was. Their smiles were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor; it’s the star of this cake.
Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar adds sweetness and helps create that perfect golden crust.
All-Purpose Flour: Simple yet essential; sifted flour ensures a light texture in your cake.
Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent to give your cake that lovely rise.
Large Eggs: Fresh eggs add richness and moisture, contributing to the cake’s tender crumb.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla elevates the flavor profile, lending warmth and depth to each bite.
Milk: Whole milk provides moisture and richness, giving your cake that creamy texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Butter Cake
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan so the cake releases easily after baking.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You want it pale yellow and airy—about 4-5 minutes of mixing will do.
Add Eggs One at a Time: Incorporate three large eggs one at a time into the mixture. Make sure each egg is fully blended before adding the next; you’re aiming for a silky-smooth batter.
Mix in Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter mixture while alternating with ½ cup of whole milk until combined; avoid overmixing!
Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract into your batter for that extra flavor magic. It should smell divine at this stage—like you just walked into a bakery!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack.
Enjoy every delicious slice of your homemade French Butter Cake! It’s perfect as is or dressed up with fresh berries or whipped cream for an added touch of elegance!
Content
To elevate your French Butter Cake, remember these key tips:
Use high-quality butter: The butter impacts the cake’s flavor and texture immensely. Good butter brings richness that cheap alternatives simply can’t match. I learned this the hard way when my first cake tasted like regret.
Whip the eggs to a froth: Whipping eggs well incorporates air, leading to a lighter, fluffier cake. My first attempt had me questioning whether I’d baked a brick or a dessert.
Let it cool completely before slicing: Patience is key; cutting too soon leads to a crumbly disaster. I once couldn’t wait and ended up with cake confetti all over my kitchen.
You Must Know
- This delightful French Butter Cake is not only rich but also incredibly easy to make.
- It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to fancy dinner parties.
- The buttery aroma wafting through your home will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually add eggs, beating well after each addition. Alternate mixing in flour and milk for a smooth batter before pouring it into your prepared pan.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to toss in vanilla extract or lemon zest for extra flavor. You can also swap half of the all-purpose flour for almond flour for a unique twist on texture and taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover French Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that just-baked warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect rise, always use room-temperature ingredients.
- Ensure your oven is preheated properly before baking, as even a few degrees can impact the outcome significantly.
- Finally, don’t skimp on greasing your pan; nobody wants their cake stuck!
The first time I baked this French Butter Cake, I received rave reviews from friends and family at our annual potluck. Now it’s become my go-to dessert that never fails to impress!
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Using margarine changes the flavor but can be done if necessary.
What can I serve with French Butter Cake?
This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or whipped cream for added texture.
How long does it take to bake?
Bake your French Butter Cake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
French Butter Cake
French Butter Cake is a rich, buttery dessert that envelops your senses with its delightful aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. With its beautiful golden crust and tender crumb, it’s a showstopper that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dress it up with fresh berries or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (4-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually mix into the butter mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for optimal results. Experiment by adding lemon zest or swapping half of the flour for almond flour for a unique twist.
