French Butter Cake Recipe

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Delicious slice of homemade French butter cake with a golden crust.
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I love simple cakes, and this French Butter Cake Recipe is one of my favorites. It bakes up rich and tender with a golden top that we all fight over at family meals, and I make it when I want a quick, sure dessert. If you love warm butter cakes, try the cozy twist in my pumpkin gooey butter cake for a seasonal note.

My Dad James taught me to watch the oven clock; he always said the smell made the kitchen feel like home.

What You’ll Need

  • 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

My Trusted Kitchen Tools

  • 9×9-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve
  • Toothpick for testing doneness

Bringing It All Together

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  • Mix sugar and melted butter in a large bowl until light and airy, about 1 minute.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
  • Stir in vanilla.
  • Sift cake flour, baking powder, and salt into a separate bowl.
  • Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
  • Gently fold in the sour cream.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
  • Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the batter.
  • Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving.

French Butter Cake Recipe

Making It Your Own (Swaps & Ideas)

Try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a pinch of cardamom to the batter for a new note. For a spiced spin that leans into warm flavors, I love ideas inspired by this best chai cake recipe. You can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt in equal parts for a lighter tang.

How We Love to Serve It

I serve this cake warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch spread, place slices next to fruit and coffee, or pair it with another favorite like a Brazilian carrot cake for guests who want smaller tastes of each.

A Few Tips For Success

  • Use room temperature eggs so they combine smoothly.
  • Do not overmix once you add the flour to keep the cake tender.
  • Check the cake at 30 minutes; ovens vary.
  • Let it cool a bit so slices hold their shape.

Saving Some For Later

Cool the cake completely, then wrap it tight in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze slices up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and warm briefly before serving.

From My Kitchen to Yours

This cake is simple and kind. I make it for quiet nights and for friends who drop by with news. I hope it gives you the same warm comfort it gives us.

Your Questions, Answered

How long will the French Butter Cake Recipe stay fresh?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days if you like it chilled.

Can I freeze the French Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes, freeze wrapped slices for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or warm in a low oven before serving.

Can I make the French Butter Cake Recipe in a different pan?

You can use an 8×8 pan, but bake a few minutes longer and check doneness with a toothpick. A larger pan will make a thinner cake and bake faster.

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french butter cake recipe 2026 01 30 220026 1 French Butter Cake Recipe

French Butter Cake

  • Author: sarah
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

A rich and tender cake with a golden top, perfect for family meals and quick desserts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  3. Mix sugar and melted butter in a large bowl until light and airy, about 1 minute.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
  5. Stir in vanilla.
  6. Sift cake flour, baking powder, and salt into a separate bowl.
  7. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
  8. Gently fold in the sour cream.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
  10. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the batter.
  11. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  12. Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest or cardamom. This cake can also be paired with ice cream or fruit for serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: cake, dessert, butter cake, French desserts

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