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A slice of French butter cake with a golden crust and fluffy texture.

French Butter Cake

A rich, soft, and simple cake with a buttery top, perfect for snacks or gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 9 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Bakery, French
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (2 sticks)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature Use room temperature for best results.
  • 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups cake flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ⅔ cup sour cream Full-fat is recommended for best texture.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the sugar and melted butter for about 1 minute until light and airy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add vanilla.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift the cake flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Gently fold in the sour cream.
  6. Pour the batter into the baking dish and sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or wrapped in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For extra crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.