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Easy French Butter Cake, Classic Gâteau Breton Recipe with rich texture and jam filling.

Easy French Butter Cake

A rich and buttery French butter cake that is simple to make and even better the next day, reminiscent of classic Gâteau Breton.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: French
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use good quality butter for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks For a glossy top.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Measure carefully to avoid dryness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Reduce if using salted butter.
Optional fillings
  • 1/4 cup raspberry jam For a filled version.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a round or springform cake pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth.
  3. Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  6. If using a filling, spread half of the batter into the prepared pan, layer with jam, then add the remaining batter on top.
Baking
  1. Smooth the top of the batter, then brush with egg yolk for a glossy finish.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
  1. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with coffee, black tea, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

This cake improves with time. Store it tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for longer freshness, or freeze for up to 2 months.