French Butter Cake: The Best Butter Cake Recipe for Every Occasion

There’s something timeless and irresistible about a slice of French Butter Cake. Rich, moist, and delicately sweet, this elegant dessert shines on a holiday table, at brunch, or as one of those perfect desserts to go.

Adapted from the classic French butter cake by 12 Tomatoes, this version keeps the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it one of the best butter cake recipes out there. If you love French dessert recipes, you’ll want to save this butter cake recipe and make it again and again.

For other decadent bakes, you may also enjoy our lemon crumb bars and honey lavender cupcakes — two more irresistible buttery cake recipes!

Why You’ll Love French Butter Cake

This French Butter Cake is:
✅ Buttery and rich with a delicate crumb
✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✅ Perfect as a dessert to go, gift, or centerpiece
✅ One of the most beloved French dessert recipes

It’s no wonder this French butter cake recipe has stood the test of time.

Ingredients for French Butter Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich butter cake recipe:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

For this French butter cake recipe, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

How to Make French Butter Cake

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pan(s).

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Tips for the Best Butter Cake Recipe

• Use good-quality butter for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter — it can make the cake tough.
• Check for doneness at 30 minutes, as oven times vary.
• Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.

Serving Suggestions

This French butter cake is perfect for:
🍰 Holidays or special occasions
🍰 Afternoon tea or brunch
🍰 Wrapped as desserts to go for friends or family
🍰 Anytime you crave a simple yet indulgent treat

If you enjoy buttery cake recipes, try pairing this with a hot cup of warm cinnamon orange mocktail for a cozy combination.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices, well wrapped, for up to a month.

FAQ: French Butter Cake

What makes French butter cake different?
Its simplicity and focus on high-quality butter make it richer and denser than some American-style cakes.

Can I use salted butter?
Yes — just reduce the added salt to ¼ teaspoon.

Is this cake good for layering?
Yes, you can bake it in two round pans and frost if desired.

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely — it keeps well, making it a great choice for desserts to go or party prep.

Final Thoughts: The Best Butter Cake Recipe You’ll Ever Bake

Elegant, buttery, and undeniably delicious, this French butter cake is a timeless favorite. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing rich butter cake recipe, a light addition to your French dessert recipes, or a go-to butter cake recipe for any occasion, this one checks all the boxes.

For more inspiration, try our pumpkin smores cookies or maple rice krispie treats — both easy and delightful desserts to go!

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