French Butter Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that captures the essence of French baking simplicity, look no further than the French Butter Cake. This classic treat boasts a rich, tender crumb and a delicate golden crust, thanks to a generous amount of butter and just the right touch of sweetness. It fills the kitchen with a warm, nostalgic aroma as it bakes, and every slice feels like a celebration of pure, old-fashioned comfort. Whether you serve it with coffee, tea, or a dollop of fruit preserves, French Butter Cake is sure to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of French Butter Cake lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each item plays a starring role in creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle, buttery flavor that sets this cake apart.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The soul of the cake, butter brings richness and a velvety crumb—make sure it’s truly at room temperature for the fluffiest result.
- Granulated Sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the cake just enough and helps create that beautiful golden crust on top.
- Large Eggs (4): They bind everything together and add luxurious structure and color.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Gives the cake its tender body—be sure to measure it correctly for the best texture.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle lift, ensuring the cake isn’t too dense.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Brightens all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth—pure vanilla makes a difference here.
- Almond Extract (½ teaspoon, optional): For a subtle, nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with butter.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional): A light sprinkle before serving creates an elegant, bakery-style finish.
How to Make French Butter Cake
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9-inch round cake pan or a springform pan, making sure to coat every nook and cranny so your French Butter Cake releases easily. Line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper for extra insurance—a little effort here means a picture-perfect cake later!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial: the more air you incorporate now, the lighter your cake will be. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps the batter stay smooth and emulsified. Stir in the vanilla extract and, if you’re using it, the almond extract. These add that unmistakable French Butter Cake aroma that fills your kitchen with anticipation.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed, so your cake rises beautifully and the flavors shine through.
Step 5: Mix and Finish the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix—stirring only until you see no more streaks of flour is the secret to a tender French Butter Cake. The batter will be thick and luscious.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once the cake is cool, dust it generously with powdered sugar if you like. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also gives your French Butter Cake a lovely, inviting look that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve French Butter Cake
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is all you really need, but for extra flair, try a scattering of fresh berries or a swirl of whipped cream. Even a drizzle of fruit preserves (apricot or raspberry are divine) can elevate your French Butter Cake to something unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs fabulously with a cup of strong coffee, a pot of delicate tea, or even a glass of dessert wine. For a light dessert plate, serve with a handful of sliced strawberries or a citrus salad to balance the buttery richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider cutting the cake into elegant wedges and layering each slice with a spoonful of lemon curd or mascarpone cream. You can also bake individual mini French Butter Cakes in muffin tins for a charming, shareable treat at brunch or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
French Butter Cake keeps remarkably well at room temperature for up to three days. Store it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to preserve its moist texture and buttery flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight at room temperature for the best texture.
Reheating
While French Butter Cake is delicious at room temperature, you can gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven if you prefer a warm, just-baked feel. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry it out.
FAQs
Can I substitute margarine for butter in French Butter Cake?
Butter is the star of this cake and provides its distinct flavor and texture. While margarine will technically work, you’ll miss out on the rich, creamy taste that makes French Butter Cake so special.
What’s the purpose of almond extract, and can I skip it?
Almond extract adds a subtle, nutty aroma that enhances the cake’s flavor, but the cake is still delicious if you leave it out or prefer a pure vanilla profile.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The top should be golden and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist and tender.
Can I make French Butter Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but the cake will still be delightful.
Is French Butter Cake the same as pound cake?
They’re similar in their buttery richness, but French Butter Cake is a bit lighter and often includes flavorings like vanilla and almond extracts, giving it a unique taste and aroma.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try your hand at this timeless French Butter Cake. There’s something magical about watching a few humble ingredients transform into a treat that’s both elegant and comforting. Share it with friends, savor it with your afternoon coffee, or simply enjoy a slice whenever you need a moment of buttery bliss!
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French Butter Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic French Butter Cake is a rich, moist, and tender dessert that combines the buttery flavor with a delicate crumb. Perfectly sweetened and lightly aromatic with vanilla and optional almond extract, this cake is ideal for enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Butter Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, which should take about 3–4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter and proper incorporation.
- Flavor the Batter: Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if you are using it, adding aromatic depth to the cake.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding carefully and mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Fill the Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake and beautiful presentation.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake’s surface turns a beautiful golden color.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then carefully remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar if desired. This enhances appearance and adds a touch of sweetness.
Notes
- This French Butter Cake is wonderfully rich and dense, making it a delightful companion to coffee or tea.
- For a fruity twist, add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh berries on top before serving.
- The cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days, making it a convenient dessert option.
- You can freeze the cake tightly wrapped for up to one month without compromising quality.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
