French Butter Cake Recipe

This French Butter Cake recipe is a rich, buttery dessert that delivers a tender crumb melting in your mouth. Perfect for coffee breaks, dessert tables, or whenever you crave something sweet, this cake stands out with its easy preparation and delightful flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this treat in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cake comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and vanilla creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Serve it plain, with fresh fruit, or as a base for your favorite toppings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual coffee break or a fancy dinner party, this cake fits right in.
• Tender Texture: The sour cream adds moisture, ensuring each bite is soft and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make the French Butter Cake recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and improve the final outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are vital for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer saves time and ensures thorough mixing for that light and airy batter.
• Baking dish: A properly sized baking dish helps achieve even baking throughout the cake.

Ingredients

For this French Butter Cake recipe, you will 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

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 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 a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl, combine the sugar and melted butter. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend them together for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes light and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar-butter mixture. Mix well after adding each egg. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream

Gently fold in the sour cream using a rubber spatula to keep the batter light and fluffy.

Step 6: Prepare to Bake

Pour the prepared batter into your greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for added sweetness.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before slicing it into pieces for serving. Enjoy this delightful French Butter Cake warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe

Serving French Butter Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this rich, buttery treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair the cake with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a fruity contrast. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Whipped Cream

• Top slices of cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a light, airy texture that balances the richness of the butter cake.

Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The melting ice cream adds a creamy element that enhances the overall flavor.

Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy French Butter Cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverages bring out the buttery notes in the cake and make for a cozy pairing.

Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent twist. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness to each bite.

Citrus Glaze

• A light citrus glaze made with lemon or orange juice can brighten up the flavors. Simply drizzle it over the cooled cake for a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

Perfecting your French Butter Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake.

• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop gluten and result in a tough cake.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Avoid opening the oven too early, as this can cause sinking.

• Let it cool properly: Allow your cake to cool in the baking dish for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.

• Store correctly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for French Butter Cake Recipe

Complementing your French Butter Cake with side dishes can enhance its appeal even more. Here’s a list of delightful options that pair perfectly with this dessert.

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy side that contrasts nicely.
3. Pound Cake Slices: Serve thin slices of pound cake alongside; this creates an inviting dessert spread.
4. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent pairing that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
5. Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone; their creaminess complements the buttery notes of the cake.
6. Nut Medley: A selection of roasted nuts provides a crunchy texture contrast, enhancing every bite.
7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top; its sweetness pairs well with the buttery flavor.
8. Coconut Whipped Cream: For dairy-free options, coconut whipped cream brings tropical flair and lightness to each serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a French Butter Cake can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can lead to a dense texture. Always let these ingredients sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake tough rather than light and airy. Mix until just combined to achieve a tender crumb.
• Skipping the greasing step: If you don’t grease the baking dish, your cake may stick. Use butter or non-stick spray generously in your baking dish.
• Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cake. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different; start checking for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover French Butter Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• item It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing French Butter Cake Recipe

• item Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• item Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• item The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Butter Cake Recipe

• item Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• item Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warmed.
• item Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this French Butter Cake recipe.

What is a French Butter Cake Recipe?

A French Butter Cake recipe features rich butter and eggs that create a moist, tender cake. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I substitute ingredients in this French Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or try different extracts like almond for unique flavors.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Can I make this French Butter Cake in advance?

Absolutely! The cake stores well and tastes even better after resting overnight.

Final Thoughts

This French Butter Cake recipe is not only simple but also versatile. Its rich flavor and soft texture make it an ideal choice for any dessert table or coffee break. Feel free to customize it by adding fruits, nuts, or even drizzling with chocolate for extra indulgence!