French Butter Cake
French Butter Cake is a luxurious, buttery classic with a moist, dense texture and simple ingredients that deliver incredible flavor and elegance. Best enjoyed in small slices with a hot beverage or fresh fruit, it’s a timeless treat that blends French tradition with universal appeal.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar reserved for topping
Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted butter, mixing for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate small bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
Gently fold in the sour cream until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and evenly sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the top.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before cutting and serving.