French Butter Cake
What could be more delightful than a warm slice of homemade French Butter Cake? This rich, buttery treat is a classic dessert that embodies simplicity and elegance. Just picture the golden crumb, the moist texture, and that irresistible buttery flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a treat after a long day, this cake serves as the perfect sweet escape. My own experience baking this cake has been nothing short of blissful; it’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This French Butter Cake is a masterpiece of simplicity, making it a perfect choice for bakers of all levels. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also requires ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Imagine being able to create something so delicious without the stress of complicated steps or hard-to-find components. It’s kid-approved, too—ideal for a family brunch, an afternoon tea, or as a last-minute dessert for holiday gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your baking repertoire!
"I baked this French Butter Cake for my son’s birthday, and it was a hit! The texture was divine, and the flavor was just right. Everyone asked for seconds!" – Emily
Preparing French Butter Cake
Crafting this French Butter Cake is a straightforward process that results in a deliciously moist cake, perfect for any occasion. Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven; this preparation gets you on the right track. You will cream together the butter and sugar, add in eggs and vanilla, then combine dry ingredients with milk. It’s as simple as that!
Gather These Items
To create this delectable cake, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
If you want to try substitutions, consider using margarine for the butter if you need a dairy-free alternative. You could also swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor twist!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This French Butter Cake can stand beautifully on its own, but why not elevate it a notch? Dust it with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or serve it with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful pairing. You could even drizzle some chocolate sauce or a fruit glaze to add a new dimension to the flavor. It’s versatile enough to shine in any setting!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers (a rarity with this cake!), storing them properly is key. Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can keep the joy of fresh cake for several weeks!
Tricks for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened properly for easier creaming with sugar.
- Don’t skip the step of alternating wet and dry ingredients; this ensures uniform texture.
- Invest in a quality cake pan; it makes a significant difference in how evenly your cake bakes.
Creative Twists
Why not play around with flavors? You could introduce lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist or fold in chocolate chips for a decadent addition. Additionally, consider adding nuts, such as finely chopped pecans or almonds, to create a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the cake.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for French Butter Cake?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, with a total baking time of 30-35 minutes.Can I substitute eggs in this recipe?
Yes! You can use applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed combined with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute for each egg.How do I ensure the cake won’t stick to the pan?
Make sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly; you can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra assurance.
This French Butter Cake recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, from intimate family gatherings to festive celebrations. Try it out, and I guarantee it will become a family favorite!
French Butter Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- You can also serve it with fresh berries and whipped cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce or fruit glaze.
