Name: French Butter Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter ((2 sticks), melted); 3 eggs room temperature; 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups cake flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ⅔ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)

Introduction to French Butter Cake

If you’re a young professional seeking a delightful and comforting dessert to savor after a long day, look no further than French Butter Cake. This elegant yet simple treat is perfect for those who may not have the time or expertise to tackle an elaborate baking project. Its rich, buttery flavor combined with a moist and fluffy texture provides a delightful indulgence that brightens up any evening.

The beauty of French Butter Cake lies in its versatility and convenience. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a cake that impresses while fitting seamlessly into your busy schedule. Whether you need to bring a dish to a potluck, want a home-baked treat for friends, or simply crave something sweet at home, this cake caters to all occasions.

Moreover, the recipe encourages creativity! Take it up a notch by adding seasonal fruits or a dusting of powdered sugar. Not only is French Butter Cake delicious, but it also makes great leftovers—if there even are any! Discover how easily this cake can become a favorite in your weekly treat lineup. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s get started!

For more tips on making this cake or other desserts, check out Baker’s Journal, a fantastic resource for baking enthusiasts!

Ingredients for French Butter Cake

Creating the perfect French Butter Cake is all about choosing the right ingredients to achieve that rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb. This delightful dessert comes together with a few simple staples, so let’s break down what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering cake.

1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens up the cake and helps it rise beautifully in the oven.
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted: The heart of the recipe, butter adds richness and moisture.
3 eggs, room temperature: Eggs bind the ingredients and provide structure; ensure they’re at room temp for better mixing.
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: A splash of this elevates the flavor profile, lending a lovely aroma.
2 cups cake flour: This flour gives the cake its soft, tender texture.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for a light rise.
1 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
⅔ cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping: This caramelizes slightly for a delightful crunch.

These ingredients are straightforward and often found in most kitchens. You can explore more cake and baking tips on sites like King Arthur Baking or Sally's Baking Addiction, which can help elevate your baking skills! So, are you ready to whip up this French Butter Cake? Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of French Butter Cake

Making French Butter Cake is not just about following a recipe; it's an experience that brings a cozy touch to your kitchen. Let’s walk through the steps together to ensure your cake turns out fluffy, buttery, and utterly delicious!

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Start by assembling everything you need for this delightful creation. Here’s what you’ll require:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
3 eggs, room temperature
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups cake flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
⅔ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping

It’s essential to get your ingredients to room temperature to promote even mixing. While you're at it, be sure to preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish to save you time later.

Cream the sugar and butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and melted butter. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and blend for about one minute until the mixture looks light and airy. This step is vital because it incorporates air into the batter, making your French Butter Cake rise beautifully.

Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract

Now, it’s time to add in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before introducing the next. Don’t forget to add the vanilla extract at this stage! The vanilla will give your cake a warm, fragrant undertone that makes it truly special.

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate small bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only mixes these dry ingredients but also helps to aerate the flour. Gradually add this mix to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until it’s just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so it’s okay if a few small lumps remain!

Mix in sour cream

Next up, fold in the sour cream with a spatula until seamlessly blended. This ingredient adds moisture and a subtle tang, ensuring your French Butter Cake is neither dry nor overly sweet.

Bake the cake to perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top. For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle the remaining granulated sugar over the batter before placing it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Once your cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential, as it allows the cake to firm up, making it easier to slice.

When fully cooled, you'll have a beautifully golden French Butter Cake ready for serving. Enjoy it plain, or pair it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert!

For more baking tips and ideas, feel free to check out the American Baking Guild. Happy baking!

Variations of French Butter Cake

Lemon Zest French Butter Cake

Add a burst of brightness to your classic French Butter Cake by incorporating fresh lemon zest. Just mix in the zest of one medium lemon into the batter. This small twist brings a delightful tang that balances the cake's richness beautifully. Perfect for spring gatherings or a refreshing treat alongside your afternoon tea!

Chocolate Chip French Butter Cake

For the chocolate lovers, a simple yet indulgent variation is the Chocolate Chip French Butter Cake. Stir in about 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips into the batter before baking. The melty goodness complements the buttery flavor, making for an irresistible dessert. Serve warm and watch your guests’ eyes light up!

Explore these variations to turn your everyday butter cake into an extraordinary delight. Check out Savoring the Seasons for more ideas and inspiration!

Baking Tips and Notes for French Butter Cake

Baking a French Butter Cake can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you'll ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature, as this helps create a smooth batter and a tender cake.
Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Sifting Matters: Sifting your dry ingredients helps avoid lumps and distributes the baking powder evenly, impacting its rise.
Check for Doneness: Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary significantly.

For more tips, you can check out resources like King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for French Butter Cake

When you’ve baked a delightful French Butter Cake, the fun really begins with serving it. This moist and buttery cake is delicious on its own, but why not elevate the experience?

Serve alongside fresh berries: Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a refreshing touch that contrasts beautifully with the cake's rich flavor.
Pair with whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a delightful creaminess that complements the cake's texture.
Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar: This offers a simple yet elegant finish, inviting guests to indulge.

Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or celebrating a special occasion, this French Butter Cake is sure to impress. For more delightful pairing ideas, check out articles on BBC Good Food or New York Times Cooking.

Time Breakdown for French Butter Cake

Preparation time
Get ready in about 15 minutes! Prepping your ingredients and mixing them together is quick and straightforward—ideal for beginners and pros alike.

Baking time
Pop your cake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. This is the perfect time to tidy up or unwind with a quick coffee while the aroma fills your kitchen.

Total time
In just 45-50 minutes, you’ll have a delicious French Butter Cake ready to impress friends or family. Can you feel the excitement? Enjoy every bite!

For more cooking tips and recipe ideas, you can check out Taste of Home and Bon Appétit for delectable inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for French Butter Cake

When indulging in a slice of French Butter Cake, it’s helpful to know what you're treating yourself to. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional content:

Calories

Each slice of this delightful cake contains approximately 300 calories, making it a rich yet rewarding dessert option.

Protein

You'll also gain about 3 grams of protein per slice, contributing to your daily intake while enjoying a sweet treat.

Sodium

With around 150 milligrams of sodium in each serving, it retains a reasonable level, allowing you to savor it without too much worry.

Understanding these nutritional aspects can help you enjoy your French Butter Cake guilt-free, whether it's for a special occasion or just a casual dessert to brighten up your day. For more detailed nutritional guidelines, check reputable sources like the USDA FoodData Central and NutritionData.

FAQs about French Butter Cake

How can I make my French butter cake even more flavorful?

Elevating your French butter cake begins with the basics! Enhance the flavor by:

Adding zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Experimenting with extracts: Try almond or hazelnut extract alongside vanilla for depth.
Mixing in spices: A dash of nutmeg or cinnamon can add warmth.

Want to take it up a notch? Consider serving it with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a sprinkle of fresh berries for a delightful contrast.

What’s the best way to store leftover French butter cake?

To keep your French butter cake fresh:

Wrap it tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge if you won’t consume it within a few days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I substitute ingredients in the French butter cake recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re out of an ingredient or want to modify the recipe:

Butter alternatives: Use unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
Gluten-free option: Swap cake flour with a gluten-free blend for those sensitive to gluten.
Dairy alternatives: Opt for non-dairy sour cream or yogurt to make this delightful dessert dairy-free!

Feel free to get creative, but note that substitutions might affect texture and taste. For more tips, you can check out this baking substitutions guide for expert advice!

Conclusion on French Butter Cake

In conclusion, the French Butter Cake is not only a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire but also a heartwarming treat that brightens any gathering. Easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, this cake is bound to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures! For more delightful recipes, check out Serious Eats for inspiration.