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French Butter Cake

A wonderfully rich and moist cake known for its buttery flavor and delicate crumb, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, plus extra for pan
  • 1.25 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1.25 cups cake flour
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Fresh berries for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by browning your butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove it from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled brown butter and 1 cup of sugar until well combined.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Gently fold in the cake flour, baking powder, and salt until just mixed.
  5. Finally, add in the sour cream and milk, mixing until the batter is smooth and luxurious.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Pour the cake batter into a buttered 9-inch round cake pan, making sure to dust it with flour.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of sugar evenly over the top of the batter.
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the cake is golden and set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Notes

This cake is versatile and can be dressed up with fresh berries and powdered sugar. Ensure your butter is browned just right, and be cautious of overmixing or overbaking the batter.