If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines buttery richness with a tender crumb, this French Butter Cake Recipe is going to become one of your favorites in no time. Bursting with vanilla and a luscious hint of almond, this cake is effortless to prepare yet impressively decadent. Its golden crust, kissed with a sprinkle of sugar, gives way to a moist and flavorful inside that makes every bite pure comfort. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving an afternoon indulgence, this French Butter Cake Recipe embodies simplicity and elegance in one scrumptious package.

French Butter Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this French Butter Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to deliver perfect texture, flavor, and that inviting aroma. Using these essentials ensures the cake stays silky and rich without any fuss.

Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the delicate crust on top.
Unsalted butter (melted): Provides richness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients while lending structure and moisture.
Vanilla extract: Imparts warm, aromatic notes essential to classic French baking.
Almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty fragrance that elevates the cake’s character.
Cake flour: Ensures a light, soft texture by keeping gluten formation low.
Baking powder: Leavens the cake just enough for a tender rise.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
Sour cream: Keeps the cake moist while adding a slight tang for depth.
Sugar (for topping): Creates a sweet, crunchy crust that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make French Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF and greasing an 8 or 9-inch square cake pan generously with cooking spray to ensure your cake releases beautifully after baking. This simple start sets the stage for perfect baking results.

Step 2: Whisk Butter and Sugar Together

In a large bowl, beat the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key because it aerates the batter, making the cake tender and giving it that dreamy, airy texture we love in a French Butter Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and optional almond extract. Mixing until just combined helps keep the batter smooth and flavorful without overworking it, which could toughen the cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold in Sour Cream

Whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Slowly add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until combined to maintain a soft crumb. Gently fold in the sour cream to add moisture and a slight tang that enhances the overall cake richness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of sugar on top to create that signature sparkling crust. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing into squares to serve.

How to Serve French Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

This French Butter Cake Recipe is delicious on its own, but adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh berries creates a lovely visual and flavor contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can also elevate the experience beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pairing this cake with a cup of strong coffee or a light herbal tea highlights its buttery sweetness and vanilla notes perfectly. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or fresh fruit compote to add a refreshing element.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering squares of this cake with whipped cream and fruit to create elegant mini trifles. You can also cut it into bite-size pieces and skewer them with strawberries for a charming party dessert that’s simple yet impressive. The French Butter Cake Recipe’s versatile texture makes it perfect for many creative presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves the moist crumb while maintaining the crisp sugar topping, so you can enjoy it just as much the next day.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your French Butter Cake Recipe, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cake will keep well for up to 2 months without any major loss of flavor or texture.

Reheating

For the best experience, let frozen slices thaw at room temperature. Reheat gently in a warm oven (about 300ºF) for 5–7 minutes to revive that delightful crust and bring back the freshly baked feel before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour in this French Butter Cake Recipe?

While you can use all-purpose flour, cake flour is preferred because it results in a lighter, softer crumb. If you only have all-purpose flour, try replacing part of it with cornstarch to mimic cake flour’s tenderness.

Is the almond extract necessary?

The almond extract is optional but highly recommended. It adds a subtle richness and depth of flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully, making this French Butter Cake Recipe more aromatic and indulgent.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can try substituting the butter and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and coconut yogurt. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might shift slightly but should still yield a tasty result.

How long will the cake stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, this cake stays fresh and delicious for about 3 days. Refrigerating it can dry it out, so it’s best eaten sooner rather than later.

Can this batter be baked in a round cake pan?

Absolutely! A similar size round pan (8 or 9 inches) works just fine. Just adjust baking time as needed, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting and elegant about this French Butter Cake Recipe that keeps me coming back to it time and time again. Its balance of sweet, buttery flavor with a tender crumb feels like a warm hug in dessert form. I encourage you to try it out yourself — whether for a casual weekend treat or a special gathering, this cake will effortlessly charm everyone around the table.