Erin French Butter Cake Recipe
Erin French Butter Cake Recipe is a rich, simple dessert that emphasizes quality ingredients and homey charm. Made with butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla, it creates a moist, tender crumb. Often served with seasonal fruit or whipped cream, this cake reflects French’s rustic elegance. It’s an easy yet indulgent treat perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Cooling rack
- Toothpick (for doneness test)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted (2 sticks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup sour cream full fat
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan & Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Lightly dust with flour or use non-stick spray for easy release.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula or mixer on low speed. Mix just until combined—do not over mix.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the surface of the batter. This forms a delicate, crackly sugar crust. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as is, or with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant finish.