French Butter Cake Recipe

This French Butter Cake recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich butter flavor with a tender crumb. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for coffee breaks or dessert tables. You can enjoy this buttery cake at family gatherings, brunches, or any occasion when you want to indulge in something sweet. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this cake will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this cake comes together quickly, allowing you to satisfy your sweet cravings without much fuss.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and vanilla creates a luscious taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it plain, topped with fresh fruit, or drizzled with your favorite sauce for an elegant touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Great Texture: The moist and tender crumb of this cake makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make baking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Baking dish (9×9-inch)
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly. They come in various sizes to accommodate different amounts of batter.
• Whisk: Perfect for incorporating air into your batter, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Baking dish: A good quality dish ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

To make this French Butter Cake recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cup sour cream

For Topping

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted butter. Mix for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture. Make sure to mix well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream

Gently fold in the sour cream using a rubber spatula until evenly incorporated.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for added sweetness.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing it into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature for an enjoyable dessert experience!

How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe

French Butter Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of French Butter Cake topped with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

A Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar on each slice before serving for an elegant and sweet finishing touch.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side to enhance the buttery flavors and provide a creamy texture.

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy this cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly for an afternoon treat.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.

Drizzled with Fruit Sauce

• Top each piece with a homemade berry sauce or chocolate drizzle to elevate the flavor profile and presentation.

How to Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

To achieve the best results with your French Butter Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs and butter should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Do not overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour, baking powder, and salt helps prevent lumps and ensures even distribution.
• Check baking time: Start checking your cake at 30 minutes; it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool properly: Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for French Butter Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your French Butter Cake can enhance its delightful taste. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to balance the rich flavors of the cake.

2. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
   This creamy accompaniment melts beautifully over warm slices and enhances the buttery taste.

3. Citrus Sorbet
   A refreshing citrus sorbet cleanses the palate between bites, making it an excellent pairing for dessert.

4. Chocolate Ganache
   Drizzling warm ganache over slices adds richness and decadence that complements the cake’s buttery texture.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Sweet caramel sauce provides a delightful contrast of flavors when drizzled on top or served on the side.

6. Coffee Custard
   A smooth coffee custard offers an elegant twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cake.

7. Chia Seed Pudding
   A light chia pudding can add a healthy touch while providing interesting texture alongside your dessert.

8. Honey Yogurt Dip
   A simple honey yogurt dip adds creaminess and sweetness that beautifully balances out each slice’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and there are common pitfalls that can affect your French Butter Cake. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and a better texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring cake flour. Packing it can result in too much flour and a dry cake.
• Skipping the greasing step: Make sure to grease your baking dish well. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the cake after baking.
• Ignoring baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• If layered with frosting or toppings, place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing French Butter Cake Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating French Butter Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some commonly asked questions regarding the French Butter Cake.

What is a French Butter Cake Recipe?

A French Butter Cake recipe is a rich dessert known for its buttery flavor and tender crumb. It’s delightful as an afternoon treat or dessert.

Can I use alternatives in my French Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ingredients like sour cream with Greek yogurt or use different extracts such as almond or lemon for added flavor.

How do I know when my French Butter Cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I add flavors to my French Butter Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Add lemon zest, cocoa powder, or spices like cinnamon for unique flavors that enhance the richness of the cake.

Final Thoughts

This French Butter Cake recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect on its own or dressed up with fruit or whipped cream. Feel free to experiment with flavors and toppings to make it uniquely yours!