French Butter Cake Dessert

This French butter cake is that rare dessert combining the richness of classic French baking with the everyday ease of pantry ingredients. It always comes out moist and tender and has a simple sugary crust that makes each bite unforgettable. I lean on this recipe when I want something quick that feels special with my afternoon coffee or to share at family gatherings without fuss.

I first baked this for a neighbor’s brunch and our kids devoured it warm out of the oven. Now it is an easy favorite I return to whenever the house needs that comforting scent of butter and vanilla.

Ingredients

• Granulated sugar: brings sweetness and gives the cake its perfect golden crust look for a fine texture for easiest mixing
• Unsalted butter: melted for depth and richness pick high-quality European-style butter if you can find it for best flavor
• Eggs: at room temperature help the batter come together for a light rise farm-fresh eggs always give the yellowest crumb
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor pure vanilla makes a difference here over imitation
• Cake flour: keeps the crumb extra tender sift for the softest texture
• Baking powder: lifts and lightens every bite check that your powder is fresh for best rise
• Salt: enhances the other flavors choose fine sea salt to distribute evenly
• Sour cream: adds moistness and just a touch of tang pick full-fat for richest results
• Granulated sugar for topping: forms a delicate sweet crust use the same fine sugar as in the batter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by nine inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking

Mix Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl combine the granulated sugar and melted butter beat for a full minute so the mixture gets light and fluffy which sets up the soft texture

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Crack in eggs one by one mixing each completely before adding the next then stir in the vanilla extract so no streaks remain

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl sift together cake flour baking powder and salt to rid lumps and aerate gently fold this flour mixture into the butter blend just until you no longer see dry spots

Fold in Sour Cream:

Add sour cream and gently stir until the batter looks smooth and silky taking care not to overmix

Prepare to Bake:

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish then sprinkle the top with a generous layer of granulated sugar to create that signature crunchy topping

Bake:

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean

Cool and Serve:

Allow the cake to cool slightly after baking before cutting into slices so it stays tender and lifts neatly from the pan

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My favorite part is the crunchy sugar top and how the slices are just right for pairing with coffee or tea. One time my grandma dusted it with powdered sugar hearts for a birthday which made the cake extra special for everyone.

Storage Tips

Keep the cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week. For longer storage freeze wrapped portions for up to two months. To revive that just-baked tenderness reheat a slice briefly in the microwave or toaster oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cake flour swap in all purpose flour but remove two tablespoons per cup and add a bit of cornstarch for softness. Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream in equal amounts for a similar tang. For a deeper flavor swirl in a few berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon right before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is wonderful on its own but shines topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light vanilla glaze. For a fresh twist serve with a handful of in-season berries and whipped cream or lightly toast leftover slices for a pudding style dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What gives French butter cake its tender crumb?

The combination of melted butter and sour cream creates a moist, delicate texture in French butter cakes.

→ Can I add flavors or mix-ins?

Yes, try folding in berries, citrus zest, or a touch of cinnamon before baking for extra flavor.

→ How should this cake be stored?

Store at room temperature for up to three days, refrigerated for one week, or freeze for two months.

→ What’s the best way to serve French butter cake?

Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a simple glaze for an elegant finish.

→ Is French butter cake suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this cake contains no meat or gelatin and suits a vegetarian diet.