Description
A simple, light, and airy butter cake with a tender crumb and rich, nutty aroma. This classic French-style dessert requires only pantry staples and minimal effort, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or 8×4-inch loaf pan generously with butter and dust with flour, tapping out excess.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale yellow and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk or cream. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined; do not overmix.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Tap pan gently to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes. Do not open the oven door for the first 30 minutes. Cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best emulsification. Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to prevent a tough texture. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. The cake tastes better the next day as flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: French butter cake, homemade cake, easy baking, brunch recipe, vanilla cake, simple dessert, butter cake