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To make the perfect French butter cake, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 ½ cups granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon baking powder - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 cup whole milk - Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added flavor) - Powdered sugar for dusting Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a moist and flavorful cake. The unsalted butter adds richness, while the granulated sugar gives it sweetness. Eggs bind everything together, and vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. All-purpose flour provides structure, and baking powder helps it rise. Salt balances the sweetness, and whole milk keeps the cake moist. Optional lemon zest can brighten the flavor, adding a refreshing touch. Lastly, a dusting of powdered sugar gives a beautiful finish. Make sure to measure your ingredients precisely. Good measurements lead to a great cake! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - In a large bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. - Next, add 4 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then blend in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. If you want, add some lemon zest for an extra zing. - In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt. - Gradually add the dry mix to the butter mixture. Alternate this with 1 cup of whole milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, and be careful not to overmix. - Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. This helps the cake rise evenly. - Bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake should turn golden brown. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean. - After baking, remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Before serving, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar. This adds a lovely touch and makes it look fancy. Enjoy your delicious French butter cake! - Ensuring room temperature ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk. This helps them mix better and creates a light texture. Take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start. - Avoiding overmixing the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough. You want a tender crumb, so stop mixing when you no longer see dry flour. - Checking doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes. - Cooling tips for maintaining moisture: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack. This keeps the cake from getting soggy and helps it stay moist. - Ways to enhance flavor, including using lemon zest: Add lemon zest for a fresh taste. It brightens the cake and adds a nice twist. You can also try orange or lime zest for different flavors. Pro Tips Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking. Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture. Use Parchment Paper: For an easy release, consider lining your cake pan with parchment paper, especially if you’re unsure about sticking. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different zests (like orange or lime) or add a splash of almond extract for a unique twist on the classic butter cake flavor. {{image_2}} You can make French butter cake even more fun. Here are some tasty ideas: - Adding different citrus flavors: Try adding orange or lime zest. These flavors give your cake a fresh twist. Just mix the zest into the batter like you would with lemon zest. - Incorporating chocolate or cocoa powder: Want a rich flavor? Add cocoa powder to the dry mix. Use about ½ cup for a chocolate version. This will make your cake moist and delicious. - Making it a layered cake with frosting: Bake two cakes instead of one. Stack them with your favorite frosting in between. This makes a fancy dessert for parties or special occasions. - Serving as a Bundt cake or mini cakes: You can use a Bundt pan for a fun shape. This way, the cake looks great and is easy to serve. Mini cakes are perfect for personal treats. Just divide the batter into smaller pans and adjust the baking time. These variations let you play with flavors and styles. Each twist makes French butter cake a new delight. - Room Temperature Storage Tips: Keep the cake in a cool, dry place. Use a cake dome or cover it with plastic wrap. This keeps the cake soft and fresh for up to three days. - Refrigeration Methods for Prolonged Freshness: If you have leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge. This helps it stay fresh for about a week. Just make sure it’s well-covered to avoid drying out. - Freezing Directions for Longer-Lasting Cake: For long-term storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can last for three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. - Reheating Tips for Serving After Storage: To warm the cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in for about 10-15 minutes. This makes it taste fresh again. You can also microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it. What is the history of French Butter Cake? French Butter Cake has roots in the classic French culinary tradition. It showcases rich flavors and simple ingredients. Bakers in France often made this cake for special occasions. Its buttery texture and light sweetness make it a favorite treat. Can I substitute different types of flour or sugar? Yes, you can use different flours or sugars. If you want a nutty taste, try almond flour. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that this may change the cake's texture and flavor. How can I make a gluten-free version of French Butter Cake? To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it has a good mix of starches and protein. You can also add a bit of xanthan gum for better texture. Follow the same steps in the recipe. What are the best serving suggestions for this cake? Serve this cake with fresh berries or whipped cream. You can also drizzle it with chocolate sauce or a fruit glaze. Dusting with powdered sugar adds a lovely touch, too. Each of these options brings out the cake's rich flavor. Can I use a different type of cake pan for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use a Bundt pan or a loaf pan if you prefer. Just adjust the baking time. Make sure the pan is well greased to prevent sticking. A different shape can make your cake look unique! French Butter Cake is a delicious and easy treat. We covered its simple ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for success. Variations allow you to get creative, too. Remember to store it properly for the best taste. Whether you add citrus or make it a layered cake, there's no wrong way to enjoy it. Try this cake and make it your own!

French Butter Cake Bliss

A rich and fluffy butter cake, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Save Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine French
Servings 8
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 zest lemon (optional for added flavor)
  • to taste powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the vanilla extract and lemon zest if using.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Before serving, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Notes

Serve slices of the cake on elegant dessert plates, garnished with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful touch.
Keyword butter cake, cake, dessert