A simple, buttery cake you can make any day.
introduction
This Classic French Butter Cake is soft, rich, and easy to make. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. If you like simple French sweets, you may also enjoy this classic French crepes guide for a light breakfast or dessert.
why make this recipe
Make this cake when you want a quick, tasty dessert with few steps. It is good for guests, tea time, or a simple treat. The cake stays moist and tastes like butter and vanilla.
how to make Classic French Butter Cake
You mix butter and sugar, add eggs, then fold in flour and milk. The batter is smooth and pours into a pan. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean. For a different butter-cake idea, see this gooey butter cake recipe for inspiration.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Directions :
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool before serving.
how to serve Classic French Butter Cake
Serve slices plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. Add fresh berries or a spoon of whipped cream. Warm a slice for a few seconds and serve with coffee or tea.
how to store Classic French Butter Cake
Let the cake cool fully. Cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped slices up to 1 month.
tips to make Classic French Butter Cake
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smooth batter.
- Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling it.
- Do not overmix after you add flour; mix just until combined.
- Check the cake at 30 minutes; ovens vary.
variation (if any)
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright flavor.
- Stir in 1/2 cup chopped almonds or toasted nuts for texture.
- Make a simple glaze from powdered sugar and milk to pour over the cooled cake.
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: Yes, but reduce added salt to a pinch.
Q: Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
A: Yes. Bake time may change; check with a toothpick after 30 minutes.
Q: Can I replace milk with buttermilk?
A: Yes. Buttermilk gives a slight tang and makes the cake tender.
Conclusion
For another take on this classic, you can read a simple version from 12 Tomatoes French Butter Cake that shows one way to serve it. If you want an easy, very buttery variation, see the notes at The Café Sucre Farine easy French butter cake.
Classic French Butter Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the milk to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool before serving.