French Butter Cake Delight

This French Butter Cake is a bakery-worthy treat that could not be simpler. Moist with a delicate crumb, this cake comes together with humble ingredients you likely have on hand. Reach for it when you want a comforting afternoon snack, something special for brunch, or an elegant dessert that impresses without any fuss.

Ingredients

• Granulated sugar: adds natural sweetness and a beautiful golden top look for fine cane sugar for best results
• Unsalted butter: melted for that signature French richness choose a European butter if you want extra flavor
• Eggs: room temperature so the batter blends smoothly select fresh eggs for the best rise
• Vanilla extract: enhances all the other flavors use real extract for full aroma
• Cake flour: creates a soft texture sift before measuring for accuracy
• Baking powder: helps the cake rise evenly always check the date for freshness
• Salt: balances the sweetness use fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Sour cream: keeps every bite moist and tender full fat gives the richest texture
• Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling: creates a classic bakery crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish ensuring every corner is coated so the cake does not stick and can be removed easily

Cream Butter and Sugar:

Mix the granulated sugar with the melted butter for one minute until the mixture is light and slightly fluffy this helps create a soft fine crumb in your cake

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Beat in eggs one at a time ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next then pour in vanilla extract for the fragrant flavor base

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl sift together the cake flour baking powder and salt sifting removes lumps and helps keep the cake tender

Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures:

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing which can create a dense cake

Fold in Sour Cream:

Gently add the sour cream to keep the batter light and moist this ingredient is the secret to the cake’s melt in your mouth texture

Transfer and Top:

Spread the batter into your prepared baking dish smoothing the top then sprinkle with granulated sugar for that classic sweet crunch

Bake:

Place in the center of your preheated oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean the top should be blond and slightly crackled

Cool and Serve:

Let the cake cool slightly in the pan making it easier to slice enjoy warm or at room temperature for peak flavor

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Storage Tips

Once fully cooled keep the cake covered on the counter for up to three days To stretch it longer refrigerate for up to a week If you want to freeze it wrap slices or whole pieces in several layers of plastic wrap then seal in a freezer bag for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge or pop a frozen slice in the microwave for a quick treat

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cake flour substitute with all purpose flour and remove two tablespoons per cup then add back two tablespoons cornstarch For a lighter flavor try half Greek yogurt in place of the sour cream Almond extract can add a lovely twist in place of some vanilla A touch of lemon zest also brightens things up

Serving Suggestions

This cake is at home with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream For something classic dust with powdered sugar To dress it up for a party drizzle a thin glaze or serve alongside fruit compote My absolute favorite is to enjoy a warm slice with a mug of milky coffee as an afternoon pick me up

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French Butter Cake History

Gâteaux au Beurre originated in places like Brittany where rich butter cakes are a regional passion French homes often use what they have on hand so this cake reflects resourcefulness and elegance from simple ingredients Over generations every family tweaks the recipe to their taste but the buttery flavor and delicate bite always remain

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why is cake flour recommended for this cake?

Cake flour has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, yielding a softer, more tender crumb in the finished cake.

→ Can I add extra flavors or mix-ins?

Absolutely! Try folding in fresh berries or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor, or dust with powdered sugar before serving.

→ How should I store the cake for freshness?

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week. For longer storage, freeze well-wrapped slices for up to 2 months.

→ What's the best way to reheat slices?

Warm individual portions in the microwave or briefly in a low oven to refresh the cake’s texture and flavor.

→ Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this butter cake contains no meat or gelatin, making it suitable for a vegetarian diet.