There’s something undeniably magical about a French Butter Cake. Picture this: a golden, fluffy cake that melts in your mouth, with a buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen like a warm hug. The moment you slice into it, the texture reveals its moistness, teasing your taste buds with every bite. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience that transports you to a quaint French patisserie where time slows down and flavors dance on your palate.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood when my grandmother would whip up her famous French Butter Cake every Sunday. The whole house would fill with the scent of sweet vanilla and rich butter, making it impossible to concentrate on anything else—homework? Forget it! I’d be glued to the oven, eagerly awaiting that first slice. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, tea parties, or just because you deserve a treat. Trust me; you’ll want to indulge in this delightful flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful French Butter Cake Recipe is incredibly easy to make, even for beginners
- Its rich buttery flavor will leave everyone asking for seconds
- Visually stunning with its golden crust and soft interior, it makes an impressive centerpiece at any gathering
- Plus, this versatile cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for dessert lovers
Ingredients for French Butter Cake Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar is perfect for sweetening and creating that lovely crust.
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our cake. Make sure it’s sifted for lightness.
- Baking Powder: Essential for giving the cake its rise and fluffiness.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs add richness and help bind all ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic flavor boost.
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 Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until creamy and light in color. This should take about three minutes—don’t rush; enjoy the process!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time while continuing to mix. Then pour in the vanilla extract. Beat until everything is fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together sifted all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Slice up this beauty once cooled slightly—and there you go! Serve plain or adorn with berries or whipped cream for added flair.
This French Butter Cake Recipe is not only an ode to my grandmother but also an invitation for you to create cherished memories in your own kitchen. Enjoy every crumb!
You Must Know
- This delightful French butter cake recipe is a slice of heaven that fills your kitchen with buttery aromas
- It’s easy to whip up and perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself
- Enjoy it plain, or serve it with fresh fruit for a vibrant twist!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the most scrumptious French butter cake, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. While that’s happening, measure out your dry ingredients and prepare your baking pan. Once the batter is ready, pour it into the pan and bake to golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this French butter cake recipe by adding lemon zest for a citrusy zing or folding in chocolate chips for added decadence. You can even swap half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor that will make your taste buds dance!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover French butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, or enjoy it cold if you’re feeling adventurous!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a lighter texture, make sure your butter is soft but not melted before creaming
- Avoid overmixing once you add the flour; this keeps your cake tender
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—trust me, it makes a world of difference!
The first time I made this French butter cake, my friends devoured it in minutes! They begged for the recipe, claiming it was “life-changing.” Who knew butter could spark such joy?
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for the French Butter Cake Recipe?
To make a delicious French Butter Cake, you will need basic ingredients that include unsalted butter, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, eggs, vanilla extract, and baking powder. It’s essential to use high-quality butter for the best flavor. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. If you want to give it a twist, consider incorporating citrus zest or almond extract. The combination of these ingredients results in a rich and moist cake that is perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to bake the French Butter Cake?
Baking your French Butter Cake typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, it’s important to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready. Be careful not to overbake it, as this can lead to a dry texture. Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Can I customize the French Butter Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! One of the great things about the French Butter Cake Recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by adding fruits like berries or peaches before baking. Alternatively, you could incorporate chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor. To make it more festive, consider drizzling a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice on top. Whatever your choice is, these modifications will still yield a delightful cake that everyone will enjoy.
How should I store leftover French Butter Cake?
Properly storing your leftover French Butter Cake ensures that it stays fresh and delicious for days. Wrap slices in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume them within a couple of days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing individual portions. If freezing, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature.
Conclusion for French Butter Cake Recipe:
In summary, mastering the French Butter Cake Recipe allows you to create a rich and flavorful dessert that is perfect for various occasions. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can achieve an impressive cake that impresses family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with fruits or flavors of your choice to suit your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with toppings, this butter cake is sure to delight anyone who tries it!
French Butter Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
French Butter Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of French patisserie with its rich buttery flavor and moist texture. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 415
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 185mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
