French Butter Cake

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Golden, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, the French Butter Cake is one of those desserts that makes you close your eyes with every bite. With its slightly crisp top, velvety crumb, and irresistible buttery flavor, it’s the kind of treat that brings comfort and elegance all in one bite.

Originally inspired by the traditional French gateau, this butter cake has been simplified for the home baker but still delivers that classic Parisian bakery charm. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, as an afternoon tea companion, or dressed up with fruit and cream for a dinner dessert, it never fails to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This French Butter Cake

This cake is the definition of simple perfection. It’s made with pantry staples, requires no fancy equipment, and can be whipped up in under an hour. The texture is dreamy: crisp edges with a soft, tender interior that’s rich without being heavy.

Best of all? It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for baking ahead for guests or gifting. It’s a beautiful centerpiece with minimal effort—exactly what home baking should be.

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What Kind of Butter Should I Use?

Since this cake is all about buttery richness, the quality of your butter truly matters. Use unsalted European-style butter, which has a higher fat content for that luxurious mouthfeel. However, if all you have is standard American butter, it will still be delicious—just make sure it’s fresh and high quality.

If you’re using salted butter, omit any added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

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Ingredients for the French Butter Cake

Every ingredient plays a crucial role in making this cake taste as indulgent as it looks.

• Butter: The heart of this recipe. Choose the best-quality unsalted butter you can find for that authentic French richness.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the golden crust. Granulated white sugar works perfectly here.
• Eggs: These provide structure and richness. Bring them to room temperature for a smoother batter.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake that gives it its tender crumb.
• Baking Powder: A touch of lift for a lighter texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors, especially the butter.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth, bringing out the flavor of the butter even more.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Gives the cake a beautiful finish and a touch of extra sweetness.

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How To Make the French Butter Cake

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—this step is key for a soft texture.

Step 2: Add 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: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Smooth the top and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Dust

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust with powdered sugar.

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How to Serve and Store French Butter Cake

This French Butter Cake serves 9 generous squares, perfect for family-style sharing or wrapping up for gifts.

Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, or let it cool and pair with a cappuccino or glass of dessert wine. It stores well at room temperature for up to 3 days when covered, and can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices in airtight wrap for up to 2 months.

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What to Serve With French Butter Cake?

Fresh Berries

Brighten up the richness of the cake with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.

Whipped Cream

A light, airy whipped cream balances the dense buttery texture beautifully.

Lemon Curd

Add a citrusy zing with a spoonful of tangy lemon curd on top.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Warm cake and cold vanilla ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser.

Espresso or Strong Coffee

The deep notes of coffee perfectly complement the cake’s sweetness and butter flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make French Butter Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch pan for a thicker cake or a round 9-inch cake tin. Just adjust the baking time slightly and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Can I make it gluten-free?

You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with good results. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Why is my butter cake dry?

Overbaking is the most common cause. Be sure to take it out as soon as a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Also, measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling.

Where can I find more easy dessert recipes?

Check out our Desserts Collection for more sweet treats like this! You might also enjoy our Lemon Drizzle Loaf or Almond Tea Cake.

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