French Butter Cake Recipe

Name: French Butter Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490202H2M54S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 eggs; 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups cake flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ⅔ cup sour cream

Published: December 1, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious cake ready to bake.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter and vanilla creates a rich taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as is, or dress it up with fresh fruits or whipped cream for special occasions.
Great for Sharing: Yields 12 to 16 slices, making it perfect for gatherings or family events.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this cake is both budget-friendly and accessible.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking dish (9×9-inch)
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even texture.
Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the batter, making your cake light and fluffy.
Baking dish: The right size ensures even baking; a 9×9-inch dish is perfect for this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

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

For the Topping

⅔ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping

How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish so that the cake won’t stick.

Step 2: Mix Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl:
1. Combine granulated sugar and melted butter.
2. Mix for about one minute until the mixture is light and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time to the sugar-butter mixture:
1. Mix well after each addition.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream

Gently fold in sour cream, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish:
1. Evenly spread it out.
2. Sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes:
– Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked:
1. Let the cake cool slightly before slicing.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious French Butter Cake recipe!

How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe

French Butter Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Berries

Serve slices of the cake topped with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

A Dollop of Whipped Cream

Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice to create a creamy contrast to the buttery cake.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the richness and adds an indulgent touch.

Pair with Ice Cream

Serve warm slices alongside vanilla or caramel ice cream for a deliciously melty combination that’s hard to resist.

Sprinkle with Powdered Sugar

Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

Pair this cake with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. The buttery flavor complements both beverages perfectly.

How to Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

To ensure your French Butter Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the cake flour, baking powder, and salt together prevents clumps and ensures an even distribution throughout the batter.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature. An oven that runs hot or cold can affect baking times.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner cuts.
Store Correctly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for French Butter Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your French Butter Cake can enhance its flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

Fresh Fruit Salad
A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the cake without overwhelming it.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layer vanilla yogurt and granola in cups for a creamy crunchy contrast that pairs well with each bite of cake.
Citrus Salad
A salad made from segments of oranges, grapefruits, and limes adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter cake.
Chocolate Mousse
This airy dessert provides a luxurious texture that contrasts nicely with the dense buttery elements of the cake.
Cheese Platter
A selection of mild cheeses can be served on the side, offering savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cake.
Minted Pea Salad
A fresh pea salad tossed with mint adds a delightful crispness that complements the soft texture of the cake beautifully.
Lemon Sorbet
This palate-cleansing dish refreshes between bites while enhancing the overall dessert experience with its tangy flavor.
Spiced Nuts
A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and depth, making it an interesting snack alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a French Butter Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect the texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Skipping the greasing step: A well-greased baking dish prevents sticking. Grease your dish thoroughly to ensure easy removal.
Not checking the oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can lead to undercooked or burnt cake. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Ignoring cooling time: Cutting the cake too soon can result in crumbling. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices.

Freezing French Butter Cake Recipe

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating French Butter Cake Recipe

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the French Butter Cake recipe:

What is a French Butter Cake?

A French Butter Cake is a rich, flavorful dessert known for its buttery taste and tender crumb. It’s perfect for any occasion!

How do I make my French Butter Cake more flavorful?

Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile of your French Butter Cake recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

How long does it take to bake the French Butter Cake?

The baking time is typically between 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Final Thoughts

This French Butter Cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various flavors or toppings based on your preference. Whether served at coffee breaks or as a delightful dessert, it’s sure to please everyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!

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