Name: French Butter Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486104H8M58S
Total time: PT-486104H8M58S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup whole milk

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French butter cake is a fantastic combination of simplicity and indulgence. It’s buttery, light, and tender, yet full of flavor. The cake is not overly sweet but has the perfect balance of richness, making it a perfect dessert to pair with a variety of beverages like coffee or tea. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup whole milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Lemon Butter Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a citrusy twist.
Berry Butter Cake: Fold in fresh or frozen berries (like raspberries or blueberries) for added flavor and texture.
Chocolate Butter Cake: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolaty version of this cake.
Almond Butter Cake: Substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor and richer texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap the cake in foil and warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

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

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter in this recipe to control the amount of salt. If you only have salted butter, you may want to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! This cake can be made a day ahead. Just store it properly in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, you can use a different size pan, but keep in mind the bake time may vary. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake, so be sure to check for doneness early.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How can I make the cake fluffier?

Make sure not to overmix the batter, and fold in the dry ingredients gently. Also, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Absolutely! A simple powdered sugar glaze or a whipped cream frosting pairs wonderfully with this cake.

Can I substitute whole milk for another type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, but the flavor and texture may slightly differ.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Ensure you do not overbake the cake, as this can make it dry. You can also cover the cake with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap to preserve its moisture.

How do I make this cake more decadent?

You can drizzle the cake with a caramel sauce or top it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a more indulgent treat.

Conclusion

French butter cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that everyone will love. Its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture make it a standout treat for any occasion. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether served plain or with a twist of your favorite flavor, this cake is perfect for a casual gathering or an elegant afternoon tea.