There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked French butter cake wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Imagine a cake so rich and buttery, it practically melts in your mouth. With each bite, you experience a delightful dance of flavors—sweet, slightly nutty, and undeniably comforting. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting brunch, or just indulging in some self-care with a cup of coffee.
I can still remember the first time I tasted this divine creation at my grandmother’s house. The moment she pulled it from the oven, the golden crust gleamed like sunshine, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. Sharing laughter and stories over slices of this cake made it unforgettable. Trust me; once you try making this French butter cake, you’ll be hooked!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French butter cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for beginners
- The rich flavor profile will impress your friends at brunch gatherings
- Its golden hue makes it visually appealing on any dessert table
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or with fresh fruits and whipped cream
I remember serving this cake at my last family gathering; everyone asked for seconds and thirds!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich flavor; it makes all the difference.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweeten things up with sugar that perfectly balances the richness of the butter.
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All-Purpose Flour: Keep it simple with regular flour; no need for fancy alternatives here.
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Baking Powder: This little helper ensures your cake rises beautifully and has that light texture.
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Large Eggs: Fresh eggs add moisture and help bind everything together securely.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile to heavenly heights.
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Milk: Whole milk keeps the batter moist and adds an extra layer of richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures an even bake right from the start.
Prepare Your Baking Pan: Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. Dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale. You’re aiming for lightness here—about 3-4 minutes should do the trick.
Add Eggs One at a Time: Crack those eggs in one by one, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. The batter should look smooth and creamy.
Mix Dry Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder until evenly combined. This helps prevent clumps when you add them to your wet ingredients.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Mix gently until just combined—no one likes a tough cake!
Now that you’ve got everything ready, pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Once baked, allow your French butter cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy this warm or at room temperature—the choice is yours!
So there you have it—a delightful journey from kitchen to table! With its velvety texture and buttery goodness, this French butter cake will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring back lovely memories of shared moments with loved ones around the table. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- This delightful french butter cake is rich, buttery, and decadently moist, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience
- The aroma while baking fills the kitchen with warmth and joy, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in
- Pair it with fresh berries for added flair
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs slowly for the best texture. Follow with dry ingredients gradually to avoid lumps.

Add Your Touch
Consider adding lemon zest for a citrusy zing or chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. Your personal flair makes this cake uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store your french butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the fluffiest texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming
- Avoid over-mixing after adding flour; this keeps the cake tender and light
- Always check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready
Reflecting on my first attempt at this recipe brings back delightful memories of friends raving about its buttery goodness and asking for seconds—an unforgettable moment that sparked my love for baking.

FAQ
What makes french butter cake different from regular cakes?
French butter cake has a denser texture due to extra butter and eggs used in the recipe.
Can I add frosting to french butter cake?
Yes, cream cheese frosting or a light glaze complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
How do I know when my french butter cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when your cake is perfectly baked.
French Butter Cake
French butter cake is a luscious treat that combines rich, buttery flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is a delightful addition to brunches, birthdays, or cozy evenings at home. With its golden crust and soft interior, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Serve it plain or topped with fresh fruits and whipped cream for an extra special touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until fluffy (3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 98mg




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