French Butter Cake Recipe (Quick & Easy)
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as rich as it is simple, this French Butter Cake is the answer. Buttery, soft, and slightly crisp on top, this cake delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Made from pantry staples and ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for impromptu guests, cozy coffee breaks, or elegant dessert spreads.
Why You’ll Love This French Butter Cake
- Rich and Buttery: The melted butter gives the cake a deep, satisfying flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Pantry-Friendly: No hard-to-find ingredients — just basic baking essentials.
- Quick and Easy: 10 minutes of prep and only 35 minutes in the oven.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a simple weekday treat or dress it up for special events.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 3 large 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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup sugar and melted butter. Beat for about 1 minute until light and airy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined — do not overmix.
- Fold in the sour cream gently until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle evenly with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Use cake flour: It keeps the crumb extra tender and delicate. All-purpose flour can work in a pinch but may yield a denser texture.
- Don’t skip the sugar topping: It creates a thin, crisp crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft center.
- Room-temperature eggs: These help the batter emulsify properly for better texture and rise.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for a light, fruity touch.
- Enjoy with a latte or cappuccino as a decadent coffee break treat.
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel for an elegant dessert.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving for best flavor.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the cake may be slightly denser. To make a DIY cake flour substitute, remove 2 tablespoons of flour from each cup of all-purpose flour and replace it with cornstarch.
What does the sour cream do?
Sour cream adds moisture and richness, keeping the cake soft and tender without being too heavy.
Is this the same as a pound cake?
Not exactly. While both are buttery and dense, French Butter Cake is typically lighter, has a crisp sugar topping, and a more delicate crumb thanks to cake flour and sour cream.
Final Thoughts
This French Butter Cake is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or exotic ingredients to create a show-stopping dessert. With its moist crumb, rich flavor, and crisp sugar top, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe box. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, teatime, or as an after-dinner treat, this cake delivers every time.
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your photos on Pinterest or Instagram using #FrenchButterCake!