French Butter Cake

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Delicate, golden, and rich with the essence of butter, French Butter Cake is a classic dessert that brings elegance to any table. Originating from the Brittany region of France, this cake is known for its moist, dense crumb and a deeply buttery flavor that melts in your mouth with every bite.

It’s the kind of cake that feels like it should only be reserved for special occasions, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or just on its own, its simplicity is what makes it truly luxurious.

Why You’ll Love This French Butter Cake

This cake is everything a butter cake should be: soft yet rich, tender with a satisfying structure, and subtly sweet without being overwhelming. The magic comes from using high-quality butter, which gives it that signature aroma and depth. It keeps well, tastes even better the next day, and pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit.

It’s a perfect recipe for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a cake that tastes like it came from a French patisserie.

What Kind of Butter Should I Use?

This recipe really shines when you use European-style butter, which has a higher fat content and a richer taste than standard American butter. Brands like Plugrá or Kerrygold work beautifully. That said, any good-quality unsalted butter will do the trick if that’s what you have on hand.

Ingredients for the French Butter Cake

The ingredient list is short, but each one plays an essential role in making this cake extraordinary. What you use here really matters, especially the butter and eggs.

• Unsalted Butter: This is the star of the show, giving the cake its rich flavor and tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light texture by creaming with the butter.
• Large Eggs: Adds structure and moisture. Let them come to room temperature before using.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base structure and keeps the crumb fine and tender.
• Baking Powder: A little goes a long way in helping the cake rise evenly.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a beautiful background flavor that enhances the richness.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.

How To Make the French Butter Cake

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This aerates the mixture and lays the foundation for a tender cake.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add this dry mixture to the butter mixture in batches, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan. Smooth the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve it plain, or dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch.

How to Serve and Store French Butter Cake

This cake serves 8 to 10 people and is a dream to serve with coffee or as a light dessert after a meal. For a fancier presentation, you can top it with whipped cream and seasonal berries, or drizzle it with a lemon glaze.

To store, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What to Serve With French Butter Cake?

Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries with a soft whipped cream turn this simple cake into a spring dessert delight.

Lemon Curd

A tart lemon curd spread over a slice adds a bright contrast to the buttery richness.

Coffee or Espresso

The deep, roasted notes of coffee pair wonderfully with the cake’s buttery flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Warm a slice slightly and top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Berry Compote

Simmer berries with a little sugar and lemon juice to make a simple sauce that complements the cake perfectly.

Honey and Nuts

A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of chopped toasted almonds or pistachios make for a satisfying bite.

Dark Chocolate Ganache

For chocolate lovers, serve the cake with a spoonful of rich ganache on the side.

Want More Cake Ideas with a French Flair?

If you enjoyed this French Butter Cake, there are more recipes you’ll want to try next:

• Try our Southern Hummingbird Cake for a fruity, nutty twist on classic Southern baking.
• Craving something rich? The Hot Fudge Brownie Bread is perfect for chocolate lovers.
• Explore the delicate flavors of the Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for a fruity and creamy bite.
• Need something simpler? The Easy Banana Cream Pie is always a crowd-pleaser.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with a dusting of sugar or whip up a glaze? Did you serve it plain or dressed it up?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

French Butter Cake is proof that the simplest ingredients can produce the most satisfying results. It’s a timeless recipe that brings joy whether it’s your first time baking or your fiftieth. With its tender crumb and rich flavor, it deserves a permanent place in your baking rotation.

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