French – Breton Butter Cake Recipe

Breton Butter Cake Recipe (Gâteau Breton) is a rich, buttery French dessert from the Brittany region. It’s made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and a touch of rum or vanilla for added flavor.

The cake has a dense, almost shortbread-like texture and is often topped with a layer of fruit preserves, such as apple or black currant.

You should make this cake for its irresistible flavor and satisfying texture. It’s perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or as a delightful treat with tea or coffee.

I first made it for a family gathering, and it was a hit! The guests, mostly my relatives and friends, loved its decadent taste and the buttery richness.

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that’s both easy and elegant, Breton Butter Cake is an excellent choice.

Why Is It Called Butter Cake?

The name “Butter Cake” is derived from its key ingredient: butter. This cake is renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture, which are achieved through the generous use of butter in the recipe.

Unlike other types of cake where butter may be supplemented with oil or other fats, Butter Cake highlights the luxurious taste and mouthfeel of butter, making it a true indulgence for pastry enthusiasts.

Breton Butter Cake Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 50 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: French

Yield: 8 serving

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Spatula
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch round cake pan
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cake flour (not self-rising)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Bake It Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Work is Key

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the bottom of your cake pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mix aside.

2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer, or a good 5-7 minutes by hand (great arm workout!).

3. Introducing the Eggs

Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, making sure each yolk is fully incorporated before adding the next. Once all the yolks are in, stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Bringing it Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix – a few streaks of flour are perfectly fine.

5. Shaping and Baking

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough into a circle about ½ inch thick. Gently transfer the dough to your prepared cake pan and press it down to evenly distribute it.

Use a fork to prick the top of the dough a few times. Bake the cake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. A Touch of Sweetness (Optional)

While the cake cools, you can whip up a simple glaze by mixing together 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar with a splash of milk or lemon juice. Drizzle this over the cooled cake for a touch of extra sweetness.

Nutrition Facts Breton Butter Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	450
Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Sugar	25g
Protein	5g

Amazing Serving Ideas

For amazing serving ideas, try pairing Breton Butter Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its richness.

You can also serve it alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit syrup for a pop of color and flavor. For a more festive touch, dust the cake with powdered sugar or add a sprig of mint.

These simple additions elevate the experience and make it even more delightful for your guests or family. Perfect for any occasion!

How To Make With More Delicious

To make your Breton Butter Cake even more delicious, here are five ideas:

➤ Add Almond Flour: Incorporate a small amount of almond flour into the batter for a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the butter.

➤ Fruit Filling: Spread a layer of fruit preserves (like raspberry, apricot, or black currant) in the center before baking for a tangy surprise.

➤ Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter to brighten the flavors and give a fresh, citrusy kick.

➤ Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the cake, perfect for cozy gatherings.

➤ Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a rich caramel sauce over the cake right before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence.

Why Is My Butter Cake Hard?

If your butter cake turns out hard, several factors could be at play. Over mixing the batter can lead to the development of too much gluten, resulting in a dense and tough texture.

Additionally, baking the cake at too high a temperature or for too long can cause it to dry out and become hard.

Insufficient moisture in the batter or using expired or low-quality ingredients may also contribute to a tough cake.

To ensure a soft and tender butter cake, follow the recipe closely, avoid overmixing, and monitor the baking time and temperature carefully.

My Tips for Making Breton Butter Cake Recipe

Here are some of my tips for making the perfect Breton Butter Cake Recipe:

1. Since butter is the star ingredient, choose a good-quality, unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.

2. Make sure your butter, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature to ensure they mix evenly for a smooth batter.

3. Mix the batter just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so be gentle.

4. After mixing, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This helps the cake hold its shape and results in a better texture.

5. Adding a layer of fruit preserves or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add flavor and texture to your cake.

Can I Keep Freeze?

Yes, you can freeze Breton Butter Cake Recipe for later enjoyment. To freeze the cake, allow it to cool completely after baking.

Then, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer bag to further protect it from freezer odors.

Stored this way, butter cake can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Once thawed, you can reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a warm and delicious treat.

More Butter Cake Recipes You’ll Love

Easy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cake Recipe

The Perfect – Moist Butter Cake Recipe

Traditional Butter Cake Recipe

Butter Pecan Cake Mix Recipes – Easy and Delicious

Heavenly – Brown Butter Cake Recipe

Conclusion

Breton Butter Cake Recipe is a delicious and simple dessert that captures the essence of French baking with its rich, buttery flavor and dense texture.

Breton Butter Cake Recipe ideal treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or enjoying a quiet afternoon.

The combination of simple ingredients and the option to add fruit preserves makes it versatile and loved by many.

If you enjoy indulgent, comforting cakes, this Breton Butter Cake Recipe is definitely worth trying, and it’s sure to impress anyone who gets a taste!