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Classic French Butter Cake Recipe

Classic French Butter Cake Recipe

The Classic French Butter Cake Recipe is a beautiful and simple dessert loved around the world. It is soft, rich and full of buttery flavor. Many home bakers enjoy this cake because it feels elegant but easy to make.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine French
Servings 8
Calories 340 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar for dusting optional

Instructions
  

Prepare the Oven and Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This step helps the cake release easily after baking.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

  • Place softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat them together using a mixer until light and fluffy. This step creates a smooth base and adds air to the batter.

Add the Eggs

  • Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time. Beat well after each egg. This helps the batter stay smooth and prevents it from separating.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Stir them gently with a spoon. Mixing dry ingredients first helps them spread evenly in the cake batter.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Add the dry mixture slowly to the butter mixture. Pour in milk and vanilla extract. Mix gently until the batter becomes smooth and creamy.

Pour the Batter into the Pan

  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Smooth the top so the cake bakes evenly.

Bake the Cake

  • Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The top should turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Cool the Cake

  • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Add a Simple Finish

  • Dust powdered sugar lightly over the top for a classic finish. This simple decoration makes the cake look elegant.

Slice and Serve

  • Cut the cake into slices and serve with tea or coffee. The soft texture and buttery flavor make every bite delicious.

Notes

  • Use room-temperature butter for smoother batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake soft.
  • Add lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
  • Replace vanilla with almond extract for a nutty twist.
  • Serve with berries for extra sweetness.
Keyword Classic French Butter Cake Recipe