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Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

Perfect French Butter Cake Recipe

4.8 from 18 reviews

This Perfect French Butter Cake recipe delivers a rich, tender, and buttery cake with a delicate crumb and a golden crust. Ideal for any occasion, this classic French dessert is simple to prepare and promises a moist, flavorful experience that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat for 3–5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which incorporates air for a tender crumb.
  3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition. This process maintains the emulsion and builds batter structure for the cake.
  4. Mix in Vanilla Extract: Stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully combined to add a rich flavor.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until incorporated to avoid toughening the cake.
  6. Add Milk: Pour in the milk and mix gently until the batter is smooth and uniform. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
  7. Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Notes

  • Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and optimal texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to prevent a dense cake.
  • The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • For an extra touch, serve with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: French butter cake, butter cake recipe, classic French cake, buttery dessert, easy cake recipe