A quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this French Butter Cake is an irresistible treat that combines the best qualities of both coffee cake and pound cake. With its buttery richness and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this cake will become a go-to for satisfying sweet cravings without the hassle of complicated preparation.

French Butter Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French Butter Cake is the ultimate in simplicity and flavor. It features a perfect balance of buttery richness and just the right amount of sweetness. The cake’s tender crumb melts in your mouth, and it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a great choice when you need a quick and satisfying dessert. Whether paired with a cup of coffee in the morning or served as a sweet treat after dinner, this cake delivers every time.

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
3 eggs, room temperature
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups cake flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
⅔ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, add sugar and melted butter. Mix for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes light and airy.
Add eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate small bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined (avoid overmixing to ensure a light texture).
Gently fold in the sour cream until evenly incorporated.
Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 slices
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes

Variations

Fruit addition: You can fold in fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries into the batter for an added fruity twist.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a subtle spice flavor.
Topping: For a decadent touch, serve the cake with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes for a freshly-baked feel.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture of the cake may be slightly denser than when using cake flour.

2. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

3. Can I add frosting to this cake?

While this cake is delightful on its own, you can add a simple glaze or frosting if you prefer. A light vanilla glaze pairs wonderfully with it.

4. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter for the most control over the salt content. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

5. Can I use non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut yogurt?

Yes, non-dairy alternatives such as almond milk and coconut yogurt can be used to make this cake dairy-free, though the flavor may vary slightly.

6. What makes this cake "French"?

The term “French Butter Cake” refers to the rich, buttery flavor and tender texture, which is reminiscent of French-style baked goods. While it isn’t a traditional French recipe, it draws inspiration from the country’s rich pastry culture.

7. Is this cake gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains wheat-based cake flour. For a gluten-free version, try substituting the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

8. Can I make this cake in a different-sized pan?

Yes, you can use a different-sized pan, but the baking time may vary. Be sure to adjust accordingly and check doneness with a toothpick.

9. How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should also be lightly golden.

10. Can I add nuts to this cake?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the batter for some added crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

French Butter Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert that combines the rich flavor of butter with a light, airy texture. Whether you’re looking for an easy afternoon treat or a quick dessert for guests, this cake is sure to become a favorite. With its minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you'll keep coming back to.