The first bite of a French butter cake is like wrapping your taste buds in a warm, buttery hug. Imagine a soft, golden slice that crumbles ever so slightly with each forkful, releasing the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goodness. It’s rich yet light, sweet yet not overwhelming, creating an experience that transports you straight to the charming patisseries of Paris with every mouthful.
Growing up, my Auntie Josephine would whip up this divine French butter cake recipe for our family gatherings. Her kitchen would fill with laughter and the sweet scent of vanilla and butter wafting through the air, promising something extraordinary was on the way. This cake is perfect for celebrations or simply indulging on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea – it’s nothing short of magic on a plate!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French butter cake recipe balances ease and flavor effortlessly, making it a go-to for any occasion
- The rich buttery flavor will have everyone asking for seconds, while its stunning golden hue makes it visually captivating
- Whether served at brunch or as a dessert, its versatility shines through every slice
Ingredients for French Butter Cake Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: About 1 cup of softened unsalted butter is crucial for that rich flavor and tender crumb.
- Granulated Sugar: Use 1 cup of granulated sugar to add sweetness without overpowering the buttery goodness.
- Eggs: Three large eggs provide structure and richness; room temperature eggs work best.
- All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour to give the cake its delightful texture.
- Baking Powder: Just one teaspoon helps the cake rise beautifully without being dense.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor profile, making each bite irresistible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan (9 inches works perfectly) or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy release after baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy – around five minutes should do it! You’ll know it’s ready when you can see tiny air bubbles forming in the mixture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next up, add three large eggs one at a time to your buttery mix along with the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat well after each addition until everything is combined smoothly; it’s like blending happiness into your batter.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour and one teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually mix this into your wet ingredients until just combined—no need to overmix unless you want your cake to resemble a rubber tire!
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Pop it in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 6: Cool Down
Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before serving; patience is key here!
Transfer slices onto plates and serve with fresh berries or whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every delightful crumb as you savor this scrumptious French butter cake recipe!
You Must Know
- This French butter cake recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with a beautifully moist texture
- Perfect for any occasion, it will impress guests and satisfy cravings
- The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to whip up on a whim, ensuring you always have a delicious dessert at hand
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your French butter cake recipe, start by creaming together your butter and sugar until light and fluffy. While that’s happening, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine your dry ingredients in a separate bowl, and then gradually add them to the butter mixture for perfect integration.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this French butter cake recipe by adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist or folding in chocolate chips for an indulgent treat. You can also swap half of the all-purpose flour for almond flour to enhance the nutty flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better emulsification and a lighter cake texture
- Make sure not to overmix once you add flour; this will keep your cake tender
- Lastly, let your cake cool completely before slicing for clean edges and easier serving
There was one time I decided to bake this French butter cake recipe for my sister’s birthday, and she couldn’t stop raving about how moist and buttery it was! That feedback made me feel like a culinary rockstar!
FAQs:
What is a French Butter Cake Recipe?
A French Butter Cake Recipe is a classic dessert known for its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture. This cake typically uses high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. The result is a dense yet tender cake that pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits or a light glaze. It’s perfect for celebrations or simple afternoon tea. Following a French Butter Cake Recipe allows bakers to enjoy the authentic taste of French patisserie right at home.
How do I store leftovers from my French Butter Cake?
To store leftovers from your French Butter Cake, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moisture and freshness. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them securely in plastic before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Can I customize my French Butter Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily customize your French Butter Cake Recipe to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a refreshing twist. Vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile even more. For added texture, mix in nuts or chocolate chips. Alternatively, you could top the cake with fresh fruit or a layer of frosting to elevate its appearance and taste.
What should I serve with my French Butter Cake?
When serving your French Butter Cake, consider pairing it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a delightful contrast in flavor and color. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can enhance its visual appeal as well. Additionally, pairing it with coffee or tea creates an elegant dessert experience perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion for French Butter Cake Recipe:
The French Butter Cake Recipe offers a delightful way to create a rich and flavorful dessert that everyone will love. By following the steps outlined here, you can achieve that perfect balance of buttery goodness and moist texture. Remember to store any leftovers properly to enjoy them later and feel free to customize the recipe according to your preferences. With this guide, you are now equipped to bake an impressive French Butter Cake that will surely impress friends and family alike!
French Butter Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
French Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of French patisserie right in your kitchen. With its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb, each bite feels like a warm embrace. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet afternoons with tea, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Whisk together flour and baking powder in another bowl; gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
