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Easy French Butter Cake

A simple, buttery cake that's golden, tender, and perfect for busy weeknights, with an irresistible flavor and minimal effort required.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: French
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened Should be soft enough to make a dent but not melted.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness and helps with crumb.
  • 3 large Eggs, room temperature Cold eggs can curdle the batter.
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour No need to sift if whisked first.
  • 2 teaspoons Baking powder Provides lift without making it airy.
  • 1 pinch Salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Use the real kind for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk or cream A splash to smooth out the batter.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and buttering the sides.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well each time until fully incorporated.
  4. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Add milk or cream to the batter and mix until smooth.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar or add fresh berries for extra flavor. Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze tightly wrapped slices for longer storage.