Introduction to Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Have you ever found yourself craving something sweet but thought, "I just don't have the time"? Enter the ridiculously easy French butter cake. This delightful dessert is a game-changer for busy professionals who still want to impress friends or indulge in a homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why this cake is a game-changer for busy professionals?
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this cake fits seamlessly into your hectic schedule. It's quick to whip up, taking only about 10 minutes of your attention before it’s baking away in the oven. Whether you're working from home or balancing remote meetings, this cake requires little monitoring, allowing you to check off other tasks while it bakes.
Additionally, the cake is incredibly versatile—dress it up with seasonal fruits, a simple dusting of powdered sugar, or enjoy it plain with your favorite cup of coffee. Leading culinary sources, such as Bon Appétit, emphasize how simple recipes can yield stunning results, making this cake a perfect example. Imagine how this ridiculously easy French butter cake can elevate your weeknight dinner or weekend brunch with minimal effort.
Take your first step towards mastering this cake; you'll soon find it becomes your go-to recipe for moments that call for a touch of sweetness without the fuss!
Ingredients for Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dessert without breaking a sweat, this ridiculously easy French butter cake will quickly become your go-to recipe. Here’s what you need to create this delightful treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family!
For the Cake:
- ½ cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup neutral-flavored oil (like canola or avocado)
For the Glaze:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter (consider using salted for extra flavor)
- 1½ tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
By gathering these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s a breeze to make. For more cake ideas, check out this collection of easy cake recipes. Happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation for Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Baking a cake doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and this ridiculously easy French butter cake is the perfect proof of that. With just a few simple steps, you can impress your friends and family with a delicious homemade treat. Let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, ensure you have all your ingredients lined up and ready to go. You’ll need:
- ½ cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup neutral flavored oil (like canola or avocado)
For the glaze:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 1½ tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
Having everything prepped makes the process smoother. If you’re curious about ingredient alternatives, check out this fantastic guide on common baking substitutions.
Preheat Your Oven
While you’re gathering your ingredients, it’s a great time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will start baking evenly as soon as it hits the oven. A little nugget of wisdom: never skip this step—it's crucial for the perfect rise!
Mix the Base Ingredients
Now, in a large bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, eggs, and both extracts. Whisk these together until they’re well blended. This step not only combines the wet ingredients but also helps to incorporate air, which is essential for a light cake.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, measure out your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re evenly distributed. This ensures that the leavening agent works efficiently throughout the batter.
Incorporate the Oil
Next comes the oil! Pour your chosen neutral oil into the egg mixture and stir vigorously. Don’t be alarmed if it looks a bit separated at first; just keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. This richness is what will make your ridiculously easy French butter cake so delectably moist.
Bake to Perfection
Once everything is mixed well, pour the batter into a prepared 8-inch round cake pan. Bake it in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake feels springy to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Resist the urge to open the oven too early; it can cause your cake to fall!
Prepare the Glaze While the Cake Cools
As your cake cools slightly, it’s the perfect time to whip up the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, water, and extracts. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts—just don’t let it boil!
Glaze the Cake Generously
Once your cake is cooled (but still warm), it’s time to glaze! Using a pastry brush, generously apply the glaze over the top. Don’t be shy—let it soak in. After a nice coating, flip the cake onto a cooling rack, then brush the remaining glaze over the now top of the cake. Allow it to cool completely before serving, and for an extra touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving.
With these steps, you’ll soon be enjoying a slice of your ridiculously easy French butter cake, a delicious treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. Happy baking!
Variations on Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Lemon-infused version
Transform your ridiculously easy French butter cake into a refreshing lemon delight. Simply add the zest of one lemon to the batter and substitute a quarter cup of the yogurt with fresh lemon juice. This bright, citrusy twist elevates the traditional flavor and adds a lovely tang. For an extra burst, drizzle some lemon glaze over the top before serving, and you won’t be able to resist!
Chocolate twist addition
For chocolate lovers, turn this ridiculously easy French butter cake into a decadent treat. Add a half cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips before baking. The resulting chocolate cake is rich and moist, creating a delightful contrast with the sweet glaze. Top with chocolate ganache or whipped cream to make it even more indulgent. Enjoy this version with a steaming cup of coffee for a perfect pairing!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Creating a delicious ridiculously easy French butter cake is a breeze with a few handy tips. First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps the batter blend smoothly, resulting in a fluffier cake. If you’ve never baked with yogurt before, it adds moisture and a slight tang—perfect for balancing sweetness.
For best results, don’t skip the parchment paper when preparing your cake pan; it helps prevent sticking. Finally, keep a close eye on the baking time; even a few minutes can make a difference. Check for that springy touch and toothpick test. Happy baking!
For more expert tips, check out sites like The Kitchn or Serious Eats for baking insights!
Serving Suggestions for Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
This ridiculously easy French butter cake is a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with various toppings and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this simple yet irresistible cake:
- Fresh Fruits: Serve slices alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches for a burst of color and flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add a creamy texture that complements the cake’s buttery richness.
- Ice Cream: For a decadent twist, add a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream. The warmth of the cake with cold ice cream is a classic combo.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair a slice with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Explore more pairing ideas with your favorites here.
Time Breakdown for Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Preparation time
This delightfully simple cake comes together in just 10 minutes of prep. Gather your ingredients, mix your batter, and you’re on your way to a delicious treat!
Baking time
Pop your cake into the oven for approximately 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overbake—cake perfection is at your fingertips!
Total time
From start to finish, you’ll need about 1 hour to create this ridiculously easy French butter cake, making it an ideal option for both beginner bakers and busy professionals alike. For more baking tips, check out sources like King Arthur Baking for a treasure trove of baking advice!
Nutritional Facts for Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
If you're craving a treat but mindful of your nutritional intake, this ridiculously easy French butter cake can fit into your lifestyle! Here’s a quick look at its nutritional content:
Calories
Each slice of this delightful cake comes in at approximately 237 calories, making it a manageable indulgence for any occasion.
Protein
Packed with 3 grams of protein, this cake provides a small boost to your daily intake, complementing its sweet and buttery profile.
Sugars
With 23 grams of sugar per serving, be prepared for a satisfyingly sweet taste that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
For a deeper dive into health-conscious baking, consider exploring Harvard Health for tips on balance and ingredient substitutions!
Whether you're preparing a cozy dessert for friends or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to please while keeping you informed about what you're eating.
FAQ about Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Can I use substitutes for yogurt?
Absolutely! If you don't have plain yogurt on hand, Greek yogurt works great for a thicker texture. You can also substitute it with sour cream for a slightly tangy flavor or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut yogurt. Just remember that these swaps might slightly alter the taste, but they’ll keep your ridiculously easy French butter cake moist and flavorful.
How can I store leftovers?
To store your ridiculously easy French butter cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, pop it in the fridge, where it can last up to a week, or freeze individual slices for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature, and they'll taste almost as fresh as when you baked them!
What's the best way to serve this cake?
Serve your ridiculously easy French butter cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a classic touch. Pair it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful twist. It also makes for a stunning centerpiece at gatherings or casual brunches! For more ideas, check out these serving suggestions on Food Network.
Conclusion on Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
There you have it—your guide to mastering a ridiculously easy French butter cake! This delightful dessert brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this cake is sure to impress. Perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in, it’s a must-try for any home baker! Remember, baking should be fun and relaxed, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy baking!
For more baking inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking for tips and recipes, or visit Sally’s Baking Addiction for additional sweet treats!
Ridiculously Easy French Butter Cake
Equipment
- 8-inch round cake pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
For the cake
- ½ cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup neutral flavored oil ie canola, vegetable, sunflower, safflower, avocado or grapeseed
For the glaze
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter (I use salted)
- 1½ tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
For the cake
- Preheat the oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Spray a 8-inch round cake pan with baking spray, rub inside surface of pan with a paper towel to cover evenly with the spray. Line bottom of pan with parchment paper and spray parchment paper lightly. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, eggs and the vanilla and almond extracts. Whisk until well blended.
- Add the baking powder and salt. Whisk to combine then add the flour and whisk again just until all of the flour is blended in.
- Add the oil and stir well. Don't worry, at first it will seem to separate but keep stirring till smooth.
- Pour the batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the cake feels springy to the touch and a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake.
- While the cake cools a bit, prepare the glaze.
For the glaze
- Combine the sugar, butter, water and extracts in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat stirring frequently until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved. Do not bring to a boil.
- Using a pastry brush, slowly brush the glaze all over the top of the cake, using about a quarter of the mixture.
- Flip the cake out onto a cooling rack that has been set on top of a sheet of parchment paper or foil. The bottom of the cake will now be the top.
- Brush the remaining glaze over the top and sides of the cake. Just keep going over the cake till the glaze is gone. Some of it will drip off but most of it will soak in. Allow cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
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