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
Scale
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
