French Butter Cake: An Incredible 7-Layer Recipe

French Butter Cake is an amazing treat that embodies the elegance and richness of French baking. This flavorful cake is known for its tender crumb and buttery aroma, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of simple ingredients transforms into a beautifully layered dessert that captivates the senses. The process of making French Butter Cake is not just about the result; it’s a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with delightful scents and wonderful anticipation.

If you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, French Butter Cake offers a blend of techniques that everyone can enjoy. Each slice reveals soft, rich layers that melt in your mouth, exuding warmth and flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings with friends, family celebrations, or a delightful afternoon tea. Its aesthetic appeal also adds to its charm, making it a visually stunning centerpiece for any event. In this guide, we will explore why this recipe is so beloved, the preparation involved, and tips for serving your amazing creation.

Ready to create your masterpiece? Let’s dive into what makes this French Butter Cake a must-try!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Bringing French Butter Cake to life takes some time, but it’s worth every minute. Here is a breakdown of the time required for preparation and baking:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes

In total, expect to spend about 1 hour and 50 minutes on this incredible cake.

Ingredients

• 2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating a French Butter Cake is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bake your incredible cake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the whole milk and mixing until smooth.
6. Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour into Pans: Divide the batter equally among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops for even baking.
8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pans for about 15 minutes. Then, turn the cakes out onto wire racks to cool completely.
10. Assemble Cake: Once cool, layer the cakes with your choice of frosting or whipped cream, building a beautiful 7-layer dessert.

With these mouthwatering layers, your French Butter Cake is ready to stand out!

How to Serve

Serving French Butter Cake can be a delightful experience. Here are some tips on how to make it memorable:

1. Presentation: Use a cake stand to showcase your creation elegantly. A simple garnish like fresh berries or chocolate shavings can enhance its visual appeal.
2. Accompaniments: Pair slices of cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
3. Slice Size: Serve generous slices, encouraging guests to savor the rich flavors. Smaller portions encourage seconds, making it easier for everyone to enjoy.
4. Beverage Pairing: Complement the cake with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even dessert wine to elevate the dessert experience.

With these serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your guests with the stunning and delectable French Butter Cake!

Additional Tips

• Choose Quality Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. The richness of the butter is a defining characteristic of French Butter Cake.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows for better incorporation and results in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light and fluffy layers you desire.
• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready.
• Cool Completely: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding of the frosting.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to try out these variations for unique twists on the classic French Butter Cake:

1. Lemon Zest Addition: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery richness.
2. Chocolate Variation: Incorporate cocoa powder into your flour mixture for a delightful chocolate twist on the traditional recipe.
3. Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for added texture and flavor. This creates a wonderful contrast with the soft cake.
4. Fruity Layers: Layer in fresh fruits like sliced peaches or raspberries between the cake layers for added flavor and a pop of color.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 4-5 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Special Equipment

A few essential tools will help you bake this cake successfully:

• Mixing Bowls: Large bowls for mixing your ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure you have precise measurements for the best results.
• Cake Pans: Three 9-inch round cake pans are necessary for this recipe.
• Cooling Rack: A wire rack ensures the cakes cool evenly without becoming soggy.

Conclusion

The French Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that shines with its layers and buttery charm. With its versatile nature and simple steps, it invites anyone to become a baker. Tangy or sweet, classic or creative—this cake adapts to taste and occasion beautifully. As you dive into creating your version of this cake, your kitchen will fill with sweet anticipation. The French Butter Cake is not only a feast for the palate, but a celebration of love, joy, and the art of baking.