Creating a delicious French Butter Cake takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where sweet aromas filled the air as I baked with my family. There’s something incredibly joyful about whipping up a cake that’s simple yet indulgent. This dessert always reminds me of cozy moments—similar to the warm memories I get when making fall treats like my Pumpkin Fluff Pie. In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step through making this delightful French Butter Cake so you can create your own sweet memories at home.
French Butter Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup granulated sugar Plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted About two sticks
- 3 pieces eggs, room temperature Binds the ingredients
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds fragrant aroma
- 2 cups cake flour For a lighter texture
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness
- ⅔ cup sour cream Increases moistness
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar and melted butter together for about one minute until light and airy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sour cream to achieve a creamy batter.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
Nutrition
Table of Contents
Discovering the French Butter Cake
French Butter Cake tends to be a staple in many home kitchens, and for a good reason! It combines basic ingredients into a work of art that’s rich and satisfying. Growing up, I remember baking this cake with my grandmother. Her hands would expertly measure each ingredient while she shared fun stories from her childhood. The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity; with just a few quality components, you can bake a masterpiece right in your own kitchen. This French Butter Cake recipe showcases warm flavors that bring comfort and delight to every bite. You’ll notice that the butter is a star player here, creating a moist texture and rich flavor. Plus, the ingredient list is approachable, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Each mouthful transports you to a quaint French café, where the charm of homemade desserts is cherished. Let’s dive into the ingredients you need to recreate this lovely dish!
If you love classic, nostalgic desserts, you might also enjoy my Apple Spice Cake or Carrot Coffee Cake — both lovely for cozy seasons.
The Ingredients You Need
The beauty of French Butter Cake lies in its simple yet classic ingredients. You will need 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of unsalted butter (about two sticks) melted, along with three eggs at room temperature. Vanilla, a key player in this recipe, adds a fragrant aroma. You’ll also require 2 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ⅔ cup of sour cream to make the batter extra moist. For the final touch, you’ll sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, which creates a lovely golden crust that adds a touch of sweetness.
Each ingredient plays a key role. Just like in my Sweet Potato Crostini, the quality of the butter elevates every flavor in this dessert.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe brings together the elements of comfort and sophistication. The interplay between the rich butter, sweet sugar, and subtle vanilla creates a balance that’s hard to resist. Unlike many other cakes that overcomplicate flavors, the French Butter Cake showcases the quality of each ingredient. What truly makes this cake spectacular is its versatility. It can be served as a serene dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat during a sunny afternoon. Whether you’re sharing this with family or entertaining guests, this cake will surely be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s roll up our sleeves!
If you enjoy crowd-pleasers like my Mac and Cheese, this cake will fit right into your comfort-food lineup.
Ingredients Breakdown
Before we dive into baking, let’s take a moment to understand why each ingredient is essential. Each one contributes not just flavor but also texture, moistness, and that luscious quality that makes French Butter Cake so inviting.
Granulated Sugar and Butter
The combination of 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup melted unsalted butter is fundamental. Sugar sweetens the cake while also helping to create a wonderful golden crust during baking. The butter not only provides moisture but also imparts a rich, luxurious flavor. Make sure your butter is quality and fresh for the best outcome.
For more buttery inspiration, check out my Lemon Pound Cake — another recipe that celebrates richness.
Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
Next up, the three room-temperature eggs help bind the ingredients and create that airy lift as they mix in. The luscious flavor of vanilla extract adds a delicate floral note to the cake, enhancing its overall profile. Meanwhile, ⅔ cup of sour cream brings in that essential moisture, keeping the cake tender and preventing it from becoming too dense. The subtle tang from the sour cream balances the sweetness, making each slice even more enjoyable.
This careful blend of ingredients is what allows French Butter Cake to stand out at any gathering. It’s not just a cake; it’s a memory-creating experience that invites everyone to come together and share moments filled with sweetness. Now that we’ve discussed the ingredients in detail, let’s get into the baking process!
The Baking Process
Baking this delicious French Butter Cake is straightforward and fulfilling. Let’s walk through the steps together!
Preheat and Prepare
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to get your oven heated in advance to ensure the cake bakes evenly. Next, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This step is crucial; you want to ensure that every piece showcases its beautiful golden exterior without any hassle when serving.
If you’re new to baking or want more guides, browse my Trending Cake Recipes 2025 for inspiration.
Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar and melted butter together for about one minute, until the mixture becomes light and airy. Adding the eggs one at a time is next, ensuring you mix well after each addition. This is where the marriage of flavors begins! After achieving a smooth consistency, it’s time to incorporate the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt; this step helps in removing any lumps and blends the dry ingredients evenly. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. You want to fold in the sour cream gently at this point, ensuring a creamy batter is achieved without over-mixing, which could lead to a dense cake.
If you enjoy baking recipes with silky batters, try my Chocolate Mousse Cake next.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This is an exciting moment as you can see your creation starting to take shape! Sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of sugar for that delightful crust we all adore. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Once finished, allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. The aroma filling your kitchen during this baking time is enchanting, setting the tone for the wonderful treat ahead. Let’s dive into the final touches and serving suggestions!
Serving Suggestions and Final Thoughts
Once your French Butter Cake is baked and cooled, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delightful creation.
Creative Serving Ideas
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your presentation with a few creative touches. Dusting the top with powdered sugar or serving with a dollop of whipped cream adds a luxurious element. Fresh berries make for a vibrant garnish, introducing a pop of color that elevates the appearance of the dish. You can even drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an added sweetness.
If you love simple yet beautiful cakes, you may also enjoy my Chantilly Cake or Strawberry Pound Cake.
Final Thoughts
By now, you should be thrilled to try out this delectable French Butter Cake recipe. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a way to connect with family, friends, and yourself. Bake this cake for special occasions or everyday moments; its warmth and love are sure to leave a lasting impression. By sharing my journey and recipe, I hope you feel inspired to create your own delicious memories in the kitchen.
FAQs
What type of flour is best for French Butter Cake?
Cake flour works best for a lighter, fluffier texture, as it contains less protein than all-purpose flour.
Can I substitute the butter for oil?
Yes, you can use oil, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly; butter provides richness that enhances the overall taste.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze French Butter Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 3 months.
Conclusion
The French Butter Cake recipe showcases the delightful simplicity of baking, allowing you to create something special with your own hands. I hope this recipe inspires you to explore your kitchen, rekindling your love for both classic and modern flavors. Happy baking!
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