Name: French Butter Cake: 7 Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490453H7M48S
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

French Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that offers a rich and buttery flavor profile that leaves a lasting impression. This classic French gâteau au beurre is not only simple to prepare but also yields a moist and tender cake, perfect for any occasion. With its beautiful golden crust and irresistible aroma, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This French Butter Cake

This French butter sponge cake recipe is a true gem for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Second, the use of high-quality best French butter cake ingredients ensures a flavorful outcome. Third, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it plain or with toppings like fresh fruits or whipped cream. Fourth, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant soirées. Fifth, the cake stays moist for days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Lastly, the buttery goodness of this traditional French butter cake is simply irresistible, which is why it remains popular worldwide.

French Butter Cake: 7 Reasons You'll Love This Recipe - French Butter Cake - main visual representation

Ingredients for French Butter Cake

Gather these items:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make French Butter Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Step 8: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Butter Cake

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Consider adding a dash of almond extract for a unique twist on the traditional French butter cake flavors.
For a moist French butter cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after cooling.

Best Ways to Serve French Butter Cake

This delicious French butter cake dessert can be served in various ways. Enjoy it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant treat. Pair it with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful contrast of textures. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience. For a festive touch, drizzle it with chocolate or caramel sauce.

How to Store and Reheat French Butter Cake

To keep your French butter cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Butter Cake

What’s the secret to perfect French Butter Cake?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients and the mixing technique. Using fresh, high-quality butter and not overmixing ensures a light and fluffy texture, which is essential for a perfect French butter sponge cake.

Can I make French Butter Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy French butter cake recipe is ideal for making ahead. It stays moist for several days, making it perfect for meal prep or special occasions.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Butter Cake?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that your butter is adequately softened before creaming with sugar. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a denser cake.

Variations of French Butter Cake You Can Try

There are numerous variations to explore with this classic recipe. For instance, you can make a French gâteau au beurre with added lemon zest for a refreshing twist or incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent version. Additionally, consider making a moist French butter cake by adding a tablespoon of yogurt to the batter, enhancing the cake’s tenderness. Don’t forget to try a French butter cake with vanilla by increasing the vanilla extract for a richer flavor.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe or Easy Apple Cobbler Recipe. If you’re interested in baking tips, visit Snickerdoodles Chewy Cookie Recipe for more insights.

For additional information on the benefits of butter in baking, you can refer to this study on butter’s nutritional properties.