Description
This Classic French Butter Cake is rich, buttery, and tender with a golden crust. A timeless recipe from my childhood, it’s perfect for celebrations or a quiet afternoon with tea.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter (or ghee)
1½ cups granulated sugar (or raw cane sugar)
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Optional: lemon zest, orange blossom water, powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy and pale (3–5 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
6. Mix in vanilla and any optional flavorings until smooth.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the cake sit overnight before serving.
Top with whipped cream, berries, or citrus zest for a gourmet touch.
Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—wrap tightly.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Classic French Butter Cake, Butter Cake Recipe, Easy French Cake, Tea Cake