Creamy Butter Cake Recipe

Introduction

Discover pure decadence with the Creamy Butter Cake Recipe inspired by California Pizza Kitchen—a dessert that feels luxurious yet comforting. This delightful cake exudes richness, softness, and a perfectly creamy texture that melts in your mouth. A treat that’s sure to impress at gatherings or simply as an indulgence to savor.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

This dessert consists of various layers of flavor that come together harmoniously. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need to craft this delectable butter cake:

For the cake:

– All-purpose flour, 1 ¾ cups

– Granulated sugar, 1 cup

– Baking powder, 2 teaspoons

– Softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup

– Eggs, 3 large

– Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon

– Whole milk, ½ cup

For the cream cheese topping:

– Cream cheese, 8 ounces (softened)

– Powdered sugar, 1 ½ cups

– Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon

– Eggs, 2 large

For the buttery crumble topping:

– All-purpose flour, ½ cup

– Light brown sugar, ½ cup

– Cold, cubed butter, ¼ cup

Prep Time

Preparation for this cake is simple yet delightful. The process involves whipping together layers of rich batter, adding the creamy topping, and finishing with a buttery-crumble layer that creates a perfect contrast of textures.

Total Prep Time: About 20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

When it comes to cooking, patience is key as the layers slowly transform into a cohesive masterpiece in the oven.

Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 1 Hour 10 Minutes

Yield: Serves 8-10 people

The beauty of this Creamy Butter Cake lies in its ability to balance a rich, creamy filling with a light, airy cake base. It’s a batch-ready dessert perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan to prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, combine the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the wet sour cream mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until incorporated—avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Pour the Batter

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Serve or Store

Once fully cooled, the cake is ready to serve. You can enjoy it as-is or with your favorite accompaniment. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Notes

Note 1: Softened Butter

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Cold butter can lead to a lumpy batter.

Note 2: Greasing the Pan

Greasing and flouring the pan is crucial to prevent sticking. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for added insurance.

Note 3: Avoid Overmixing

Overmixing the batter after the dry and wet ingredients are combined can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined.

Note 4: Toothpick Test

Use the toothpick test to ensure the cake is fully baked. If the toothpick doesn’t come out clean, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes and check again.

Note 5: Cake Storage

Store the cake in a covered container to maintain its moist texture. Ensure it’s completely cooled before storing to avoid condensation buildup.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Cake Batter

Properly cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial to ensure a tender cake texture.

Measuring Ingredients Correctly

To avoid altering the texture of the cake, measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it with a knife.

Using Room Temperature Ingredients

Use room temperature butter, eggs, and other dairy ingredients. This helps the batter mix evenly and achieve the ideal consistency.

Baking at the Right Temperature

Always preheat your oven and bake on the center rack to ensure even cooking. Use an oven thermometer for precision if needed.

FAQ

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s recommended to use unsalted butter to control the salt level in your cake. If you only have salted butter, reduce added salt accordingly.

How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just keep it covered and at room temperature or refrigerate if necessary.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking for a moist texture.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This creamy butter cake recipe captures the essence of indulgence with its rich flavors and moist texture. It’s a decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something sweet. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Pair it with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a truly delightful experience.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Cheesecake

If you love creamy desserts, try whipping up a classic cheesecake. It’s a perfect companion to the butter cake for a dessert spread.

Lemon Bars

Add a tangy twist to your dessert table with lemon bars. The bright citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the butter cake.

Brown Butter Cookies

Go for something chewy and flavorful like brown butter cookies. Their nutty, caramel-like taste complements creamy desserts wonderfully.

Chocolate Lava Cake

For chocolate lovers, nothing beats the gooey delight of a chocolate lava cake. Serve it alongside the butter cake for an indulgent contrast.

Homemade Ice Cream

Prepare a batch of homemade ice cream in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or caramel. Use it to top your creamy butter cake or serve on the side.

Seasonal Fruit Tart

Bring a fresh and fruity element to your spread with a seasonal fruit tart. It’s a lighter addition that balances richer desserts.