If you are on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this French Butter Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. With its tender crumb and buttery richness, it’s a timeless treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Perfectly balanced sweetness and a moist texture make this cake a star for any occasion, from everyday indulgence to festive gatherings. Once you try this French Butter Cake Recipe, you’ll find it’s a comforting classic that beckons you back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect French Butter Cake. From the richness of butter to the tang of sour cream, every element enriches the cake’s flavor, texture, and appearance.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness that caramelizes on top, creating a delicate crunch.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Infuses that signature luscious and tender crumb we adore.
- Eggs (room temperature): Help bind the cake and add moisture for softness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a floral, aromatic note that brightens the overall flavor.
- Cake flour: Provides a fine, light texture that’s essential for a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Leavens the cake just enough to create a fluffy structure without heaviness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Sour cream: Gives a subtle tang and extra moistness, making the cake wonderfully soft.
- Additional granulated sugar for topping: Sprinkled on top to create a lightly crisp surface.
How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the right even warmth needed for an ideal bake. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish so your cake easily releases after baking, preventing any sticky surprises.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, blend the granulated sugar with the melted butter for about one minute until the mixture is light and airy. This step builds the foundation of the cake’s texture, incorporating tiny air pockets to create fluffiness.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This gradual mixing helps to emulsify the batter, giving the cake a consistent crumb. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to brighten the sweetness with its warm aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and aids in distributing the leavening evenly throughout the flour. Slowly add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just enough to blend; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream
Gently fold the sour cream into the batter. This ingredient is what sets this cake apart with a tender, moist crumb and a subtle tang, balancing the buttery sweetness perfectly.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into your greased baking dish, smoothing the surface. Sprinkle the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This sprinkle will melt and caramelize under heat, offering a beautiful, crunchy topping.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden, with a tender center that feels just set to the touch.
How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This butter cake is delicious simply on its own, but a dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh berries adds a fresh contrast. For extra indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey elevates the experience beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your slice with a cup of steaming coffee or tea to complement the buttery flavors. For a more decadent touch, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of fruit preserves, which enhance the cake’s moist and rich profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into small squares and serving it on a platter with assorted fruits for a charming dessert spread. Alternatively, layer slices with custard or mousse for a quick and impressive trifle that showcases the cake’s buttery goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your French Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist and fresh but still delightfully tender, just like when it came out of the oven.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its texture and flavor.
Reheating
For a warm, fresh-baked feel, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the cake’s buttery warmth and soft crumb, making each bite irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour for this French Butter Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly denser. To mimic cake flour’s lightness, try removing 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour per cup and replacing it with the same amount of cornstarch.
Why is sour cream used in this French Butter Cake Recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the buttery sweetness. It also tenderizes the crumb, making the cake delightfully soft without being greasy.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute cake flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to choose one designed for baking to maintain the cake’s structure.
How can I make the sugar topping extra crunchy?
For a crunchier topping, consider coarse sugar like turbinado or sanding sugar instead of regular granulated sugar. Sprinkle it generously to create a beautiful, crackly finish.
Is it possible to add flavors to this French Butter Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can fold in citrus zest, almond extract, or even some fresh berries into the batter for a delicious twist while keeping the buttery base intact and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely magical about this French Butter Cake Recipe. It’s so straightforward, yet it delivers a refined, comforting dessert every single time. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cake is bound to become a beloved staple. Go ahead, give it a try—you might find it’s your new favorite sweet treat to bake and share.
Print
French Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic French Butter Cake recipe offers a moist, tender crumb enhanced by the rich flavor of butter and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for any occasion, this simple yet delicious cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and is topped with a light sprinkle of sugar for a subtle crunch.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- â…” cup sour cream
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Sugar and Butter: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar with the melted butter. Mix for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes light and airy, which helps incorporate air for a fluffy cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in Sour Cream: Gently fold the sour cream into the batter, which adds moisture and tenderness to the cake.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for a sweet, slightly crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to achieve the best mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain a tender crumb.
- The sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor and similar moisture.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
