French Butter Cake
Delicate yet rich, this French butter cake celebrates simple decadence with a golden crust, a tender, buttery center, and aromatic notes of browned butter and vanilla. A quiet luxury reminiscent of Parisian pâtisseries, perfect for any occasion from afternoon tea to special gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine French
Servings 8 slices
Calories 360 kcal
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch kosher salt
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook, stirring frequently, until the solids turn golden brown and the butter gives off a nutty fragrance. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Slowly pour the slightly cooled brown butter into the egg mixture while continuing to mix. Add the vanilla extract and combine thoroughly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 5gFat: 24gSodium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22g
Keyword french butter cake, butter cake, pound cake, classic French recipe, simple dessert