French Butter Cake Recipe

This French Butter Cake recipe is a rich, buttery dessert that offers a tender crumb, melting in your mouth with every bite. Perfect for coffee breaks, dessert tables, or any moment when you crave something sweet, this cake showcases the simple pleasures of baking. With its quick preparation and use of pantry staples, it has become a beloved treat for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepared in just 10 minutes.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for coffee breaks, gatherings, or simply as an afternoon treat.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and sour cream creates a moist cake with deep flavor.
• Perfect Texture: Its tender crumb makes it an enjoyable dessert that melts in your mouth.
• Great for Sharing: With 12-16 slices, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious French Butter Cake, you will need some essential tools that make the process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures that your cake turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9×9-inch)
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy when mixing butter and sugar to achieve the desired light texture.

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
• 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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar and melted butter. Beat them together for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Fold in Sour Cream

Gently fold in the sour cream. This will help keep your cake moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, which will create a delightful crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful experience. Enjoy!

How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe

This delightful French Butter Cake is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Top slices of cake with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

A Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch that enhances the cake’s sweetness.

Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to add lightness and creaminess to each bite.

Ice Cream

• Pair a slice with your favorite vanilla or fruit-flavored ice cream for a classic combination that’s hard to resist.

Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cake for a rich and indulgent dessert experience.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy the cake with a cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the flavors and making it a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

To achieve the best results with your French Butter Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Let butter, eggs, and sour cream sit at room temperature before mixing for better emulsification.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and tender.

• Sift dry ingredients – Sifting flour, baking powder, and salt helps incorporate air and prevents lumps in your batter.

• Check oven temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.

• Cool properly – Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Best Side Dishes for French Butter Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful options that complement the French Butter Cake beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit create a creamy contrast.
3. Chocolate Mousse – Rich and airy chocolate mousse pairs well with the buttery texture.
4. Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola enhances the softness of the cake while adding extra flavor.
5. Citrus Sorbet – The zesty sorbet cleanses the palate, providing a refreshing finish.
6. Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of rich caramel sauce adds sweetness that complements the cake perfectly.
7. Chia Seed Pudding – This healthy option offers a creamy and nutty texture alongside your dessert.
8. Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea serves as a perfect beverage pairing with this sweet dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a French Butter Cake, even small errors can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth batter and a tender crumb.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure cake flour accurately. Too much flour can result in a dry cake.
• Skipping the greasing step: Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. A stuck cake can ruin its beautiful presentation.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on the baking time and perform the toothpick test for doneness. Every oven is different; adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing French Butter Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Butter Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid on top to warm evenly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the French Butter Cake recipe that may help you out.

What is a French Butter Cake Recipe?

A French Butter Cake Recipe is a simple yet decadent dessert known for its rich flavor and tender crumb, perfect for various occasions.

Can I substitute ingredients in the French Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can use different flavor extracts or even yogurt instead of sour cream for varied tastes while keeping the structure intact.

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

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

What should I serve with my French Butter Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

This French Butter Cake recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed plain, topped with fruit, or drizzled with icing, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Feel free to customize it by adding flavors like lemon zest or almond extract to make it uniquely yours!