French Butter Cake: The Ultimate French Butter Cake Recipe
Introduction to French Butter Cake
Indulging in a slice of homemade French butter cake is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort. This cake is known for its rich buttery flavor and moist texture, making it a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served as a dessert at a dinner party, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.
A Personal Story Behind My French Butter Cake Journey
Growing up, my grandmother would often bake this French butter cake for family gatherings. The aroma of the cake baking filled the house, creating a sense of anticipation and joy. I fondly remember my family coming together to enjoy slices of this cake topped with fresh berries, and it became a tradition that I cherish to this day. Now, I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, creating new memories while honoring those from my childhood.
What Makes This French Butter Cake Recipe Special?
What sets this French butter cake apart is its simplicity and the rich, buttery flavor that comes from using quality ingredients. The addition of sour cream gives it a delightful moisture that keeps the cake tender and light. It’s a cake that is versatile, perfect for any occasion, and can be easily dressed up with toppings like fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields delicious results every time, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
The Full French Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures that your cake won’t stick and will come out easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the granulated sugar and melted butter until light and airy, about 1 minute. This step is crucial for a fluffy texture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for additional flavor.
- In a separate small bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until well mixed. This adds moisture and richness to the cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar on top. This creates a lovely crust as the cake bakes.
- Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overbaking.
- Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving. Patience is key to ensure it holds its shape when cut.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for French Butter Cake
This French butter cake can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up in various ways. For a delightful twist, consider serving it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance. You can also experiment by adding lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating chocolate chips or nuts into the batter for added texture. No matter how you serve it, this cake is sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions About French Butter Cake
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if you do, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Is this cake suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs, so it’s not suitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions related to those ingredients. However, you can explore alternatives for a dairy-free version if necessary.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade French butter cake!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 9
French Butter Cake
Equipment
- 9x9-inch baking dish For baking the cake.
- Mixing bowl For combining ingredients.
- Mixer For beating the batter.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted 2 sticks
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.67 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the granulated sugar and melted butter until light and airy, about 1 minute.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate small bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until well mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar on top.
- Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.