Classic French Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat, this Classic French Butter Cake Recipe is just the ticket. Growing up, my cousin Lily would always ask for this cake on her birthday, and I can still hear her giggles as we waited for it to cool. It’s rich, buttery, and simply irresistible, making it one of my favorite French dessert recipes.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s simple to make with just a few ingredients.
• Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to tea time.
• The buttery flavor is a crowd-pleaser.

Pure Comfort

This cake is pure comfort food. Each slice is moist and tender, with a golden crust that just beckons you to take a bite. It’s like a warm hug on a plate.

What You Need

• 1 cup 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226 g) – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 g) – You can use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• 4 4 large eggs – Bring them to room temperature for better incorporation.
• 2 cups 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g) – Sifted for a lighter texture.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp baking powder – This helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup whole milk (60 ml) – You can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract – For that classic flavor.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 45 minutes | Total: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour. This will help the cake release easily after baking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and airy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should become smooth and glossy. If you see a bit of separation, don’t worry; it will come together once you add the dry ingredients.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. The batter should be thick and creamy.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
6. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma will be heavenly, so be patient!

Make It Perfect

• For a little extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the batter.
• Serve this cake with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.

Mix It Up

• Try adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• You can also make mini versions in muffin tins for individual servings.

Perfect Partners

• This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Serve it alongside whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert.

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FAQs

Conclusion

This Classic French Butter Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that everyone will love. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to in your baking repertoire. So go ahead, bake this cake, and enjoy a slice of happiness!