Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re ready to indulge in a rich, buttery treat that feels like a warm hug in cake form, you’ve come to the right place. This Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe is a classic that balances simplicity and luxury with every bite. It’s a tender, golden cake with a delicate crumb that’s perfectly moist, thanks to its generous butter content and a touch of cream. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for impressive yet effortlessly elegant dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but crucial, each playing a vital role in creating that perfect texture and flavor that make the butter cake stand out. From the richness of the butter to the subtle sweetness of sugar, every element is carefully chosen to complement one another.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The star of the show, butter adds moisture, tenderness, and a rich, creamy flavor to the cake.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb when creamed with the butter.
• 4 large eggs, room temperature: Eggs build the structure and help emulsify the batter, ensuring a smooth texture.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing substance and that classic crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle lift, helping it rise beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the deeper flavors.
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness, making the cake incredibly tender.

How to Make Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and guarantees your cake will slide out perfectly, making for a neat presentation every time.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a stand or hand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat for 3 to 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This stage is essential—it incorporates air that will create a tender, airy crumb in your cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs One by One

Carefully add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, one at a time. Beat thoroughly after each addition to keep a smooth emulsion. This step helps the cake rise evenly and prevents any curdling, resulting in a perfect batter consistency.

Step 4: Stir in Vanilla Extract

Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This subtle flavor boost turns a simple cake into something truly special with its fragrant warmth.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution, which helps your cake rise consistently and prevents salty or bitter patches.

Step 6: Alternately Add Dry Ingredients and Milk

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Then, pour in the milk or cream, and mix gently until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix—it’s key to keeping the cake tender and soft by avoiding tough gluten development.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the top is a beautiful golden shade and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like a quaint French bakery in no time.

Step 8: Cool and Unmold

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from breaking and helps maintain that perfect crumb.

How to Serve Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

This cake shines on its own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant, snowy finish. You can also top it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to introduce vibrant textures and colors without overpowering the buttery flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a cup of rich coffee or a fragrant tea for a delightful afternoon break. For a more indulgent touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to elevate the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe into small squares and serve on a wooden board with an assortment of fruit preserves or nut butters. It’s also lovely layered with a thin spread of jam or lemon curd for a quick, fancy twist that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and delicious, perfect for snacking on or serving the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save the cake for longer, wrap it well in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen butter cake can last up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s fresh-baked warmth, microwave individual slices for about 15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This will refresh the cake’s buttery softness and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter for this recipe?

While unsalted butter is preferred for precise control over the salt content, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have. Just reduce or skip the additional salt to avoid oversalting your cake.

What if I don’t have whole milk or heavy cream?

You can substitute with any milk you have on hand, including 2% or skim milk. The cake might be slightly less rich but will still turn out wonderfully moist and tender.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Look for a golden-brown top and insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If there’s wet batter, the cake needs more time.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of the Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe without sacrificing texture.

Is this cake suitable for layering?

Absolutely! Its sturdy yet tender crumb makes it an excellent base for layered cakes. Add your choice of frosting or fillings for a cupcake-worthy dessert perfect for celebrations.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably joyful about baking a cake that feels both effortless and elegant, and this Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe delivers just that. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you get a rich, tender cake that embodies classic French baking at its finest. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen, offering warmth and sweetness with every slice.

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