Imagine a dessert that’s both supremely elegant and delightfully simple — that’s exactly what you get with Famous French Cake. This is the kind of classic French treat that perfectly balances rich, buttery flavor with a subtle vanilla aroma and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb. Whether you serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or just on its own with a cup of coffee, this cake feels special every single time. If you love a cake that’s both impressive and low-effort, you’re about to meet your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Famous French Cake comes from its minimal, high-quality ingredients. Each item on the list below plays an important role: some ensure tenderness, others bring richness, and together they make the cake absolutely irresistible.
- Unsalted butter: Go for good quality here — softened butter creates that rich, tender crumb we adore.
- Granulated sugar: The right amount of sweetness to amplify the flavors without overpowering them.
- Large eggs: Room temperature eggs give the cake structure, richness, and a beautiful yellow hue.
- Pure vanilla extract: Just a splash infuses the cake with warm, aromatic notes.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, lending it perfect texture for slicing.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and creates its signature lightness.
- Salt: A small amount brightens up all the flavors.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture so your Famous French Cake stays wonderfully soft.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For a snowy, elegant finish that instantly elevates the presentation.
How to Make Famous French Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
First things first: set the stage for success by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. You want a pan that will release your Famous French Cake effortlessly, keeping those clean, golden edges.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. After 3 to 4 minutes, the mixture should look pale and fluffy, promising that signature melt-in-your-mouth cake texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps perfectly emulsify the batter and keep it smooth. Once the eggs are fully incorporated, stir in the pure vanilla extract — it’s a tiny step with a big flavor payoff.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Giving these a good toss now will ensure even distribution later, so your Famous French Cake bakes up beautifully every time.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture in two additions, alternating with the whole milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the batter — that’s the secret to a tender, delicate crumb.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As your kitchen fills with the aroma of butter and vanilla, you’ll know something extraordinary is happening in your oven!
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully release it onto a wire rack to cool completely. If you like, dust with powdered sugar before serving for that extra touch of Parisian flair.
How to Serve Famous French Cake
Garnishes
The beauty of a Famous French Cake is in its versatility. Try a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple finish, or add fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for something a bit more decadent. Edible flowers make for an extra-stunning presentation if you’re feeling fancy!
Side Dishes
This cake is glorious alongside fresh fruit, tangy crème fraîche, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving for brunch, consider pairing it with a fruit salad or a pot of good French coffee to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Get inspired by French pâtisseries! Slice your Famous French Cake into dainty wedges and serve on a cake stand, cut it horizontally and sandwich with berry compote, or transform it into an elegant layered dessert with whipped cream and lemon curd. The possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers of your Famous French Cake? Lucky you! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container. It will stay delicious and moist at room temperature for up to 2 days, or keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices (or the whole cake) in several layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months — just thaw at room temperature when the craving strikes!
Reheating
If you love a warm slice, microwave a piece of Famous French Cake for about 10–15 seconds, or briefly reheat in a low oven. This will revive the buttery aroma and make it almost as wonderful as when it first came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Simply reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning your Famous French Cake.
What makes this cake different from a classic pound cake?
Great question! While both are buttery and moist, Famous French Cake is typically lighter, thanks to the use of baking powder and milk. It’s less dense and has a subtle flavor that works beautifully for any occasion.
Can I add citrus zest or other flavors?
Absolutely! Lemon or orange zest makes a lovely addition to the batter, and you can always try a dash of almond extract or a spoonful of liqueur for your own twist on this Famous French Cake.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
The simplest way is the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs), your Famous French Cake is ready to come out and cool.
Is this cake suitable for layered or decorated cakes?
Yes! Its tender but sturdy crumb makes Famous French Cake the ideal base for layering with fruits, creams, or frosting. It holds up beautifully and slices cleanly every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to serve as it is to eat, this Famous French Cake never disappoints. With its buttery flavor, tender crumb, and endless ways to garnish or customize, it’s destined to become one of your kitchen staples. Go ahead, treat yourself — and let this cake add a little Parisian magic to your table!
Print
Famous French Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of this famous French cake, a classic buttery treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress with its rich taste and delicate texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix wet and dry: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two additions, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- This classic French-style butter cake is perfect for serving with berries, crème fraîche, or chocolate sauce.
- It can also be used as a base for layered cakes for a more elaborate dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
