Brown Butter Cake Recipe || A Classic Twist

A fan of rich, nutty flavors in desserts, the Brown Butter Cake Recipe is something you absolutely need to try. I love how the simple act of browning butter transforms a regular cake into something extraordinary.

The toasty, caramelized taste of brown butter adds depth and warmth, creating a perfectly moist cake with a flavor that’s truly unforgettable.

This cake is my go-to whenever I want to impress guests or just indulge in something special. It’s easy to make but feels incredibly elegant.

In this post, I’ll share my version of the Brown Butter Cake Recipe, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

You’ll absolutely love this Brown Butter Cake Recipe for several reasons. First, the brown butter adds a unique, rich flavor that takes this cake to a whole new level.

It’s not just any ordinary cake—it has a nutty, toasty taste that is both comforting and sophisticated. The texture is incredibly moist and tender, making every bite a delight.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners! The ingredients are simple, yet the result is elegant and impressive enough for any occasion.

Baking for a family gathering, a special celebration, or just treating yourself, this cake is perfect. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen while being incredibly satisfying.

How To Prepare Brown Butter Cake Recipe?

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 servings

Equipment Needed

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools to ensure smooth preparation:

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• 9-inch round cake pans (two)
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Wire cooling rack
• Cake leveler (optional)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create a rich, moist Brown Butter Cake Recipe:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Brown the Butter

To achieve the unique flavor of brown butter, begin by melting 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, it will start to foam and eventually turn a deep golden-brown color.

Make sure to stir frequently and keep a close eye to avoid burning. Once it releases a nutty aroma, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before using.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt. Set aside. This will ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

3. Cream the Sugar and Eggs

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar and the eggs one at a time until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step traps air in the batter, creating a light and airy texture.

4. Add the Cooled Brown Butter

Gradually add the cooled brown butter to the sugar and egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-incorporated before moving on. This will infuse the cake with a rich, nutty flavor.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. This step helps maintain a smooth batter without overmixing.

6. Fold in the Sour Cream and Vanilla Extract

Using a spatula, gently fold in ½ cup of sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract. The sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the cake.

7. Divide and Bake

Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool Completely

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Make sure they are completely cool before frosting.

1. Making the Brown Butter Frosting

1. Brown the Butter: Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, following the same browning process as earlier. Let it cool to room temperature.

2. Beat the Butter: With a hand mixer, beat the brown butter until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the Sugar: Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, while mixing on low speed.

4. Incorporate Cream and Vanilla: Add 2-3 tbsp heavy cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

5. Add a Pinch of Salt: This will enhance the sweetness and bring out the nutty notes of the brown butter.

2. Assembling the Cake

1. Level the Cakes (if needed): Use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to trim the tops for even layers.

2. Apply the First Layer of Frosting: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting evenly across the surface.

3. Top with Second Layer: Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides. I like to create a rustic swirl pattern for a classic look.

5. Garnish (optional): For a final touch, garnish with toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel.

Special Note

Brown butter can make or break this recipe, so be patient when browning. The butter should reach a rich amber color without turning dark brown or black.

If you notice any burnt specks, start over. Using high-quality butter will also make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Nutrition Facts Brown Butter Cake Recipe?

Calories: 550

Total Fat: 30g

Saturated Fat: 18g

Cholesterol: 125mg

Sodium: 180mg

Total Carbohydrates: 65g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 50g

Protein: 5g

Amazing Serving Ideas

There are countless ways to serve your Brown Butter Cake Recipe and make it even more delightful. For a simple yet elegant option, dust the top with powdered sugar for a light, sweet touch.

You can also serve it with fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a burst of freshness and color.

A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavor of the cake beautifully.

If you’re in the mood for something more decadent, drizzle a caramel sauce or a chocolate ganache over the cake.

For a seasonal twist, serve it with a cinnamon-spiced whipped cream or roasted nuts. These serving ideas can elevate the cake to a whole new level, making it perfect for any occasion.

Tips And Techniques

Here are five tips and techniques to help you perfect your Brown Butter Cake Recipe:

1. Don’t Rush the Browning Process: Be patient while browning the butter. It’s crucial to watch it closely to avoid burning. Once it turns golden and smells nutty, it’s ready.

2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth, even batter and helps the cake rise perfectly.

3. Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sifting your flour, baking powder, and salt helps eliminate clumps and ensures even distribution of the ingredients, resulting in a light, airy cake.

4. Use Buttermilk for Extra Tenderness: Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness to the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk.

5. Cool the Cake Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set and prevents it from breaking apart.

Essential Health Benefits

While a Brown Butter Cake Recipe is undoubtedly a treat for the taste buds, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Although it’s a rich dessert, there are some essential health benefits to be found in the ingredients.

For example, butter contains healthy fats that support energy levels and promote healthy skin when consumed in moderation.

Eggs provide essential protein and nutrients like vitamin D, which are important for bone health and immunity. Additionally, the use of buttermilk in the recipe adds probiotics, which can aid in digestion.

While this cake isn’t a health food per se, by including natural ingredients, it offers a small dose of nutrients that can be a part of a balanced, indulgent treat when enjoyed responsibly.

What Does Buttermilk Do?

Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness to the cake, creating a soft and fluffy texture. It also brings a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor. Plus, its acidity helps activate the baking soda, making the cake rise beautifully!

What Does Brown Butter Do?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor and deep caramel notes that elevate the taste of the cake. It also enhances the aroma, making every bite more complex and delicious. Its unique depth of flavor turns a simple cake into something extraordinary!

What happens if you put too much butter in cupcakes?

Adding too much butter can make cupcakes dense, greasy, and heavy. It may also cause them to sink in the middle and affect the overall texture, making them less fluffy and moist. Stick to the recipe’s measurements for the best results!

What makes brown butter better?

Brown butter is better because it has a rich, nutty flavor with caramel undertones that regular butter lacks.

The browning process intensifies its taste and aroma, adding depth and complexity to any dish, whether sweet or savory. It’s a simple upgrade that makes everything more flavorful!

Conclusion

Creating a Brown Butter Cake Recipe is all about paying attention to the details. From browning the butter just right to balancing the moisture in the batter, every step matters.

Its rich, nutty flavor elevates each bite, creating a dessert that feels both decadent and sophisticated. Serving it at a celebration or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this brown butter cake recipe is sure to impress.

But the result is more than worth it—a tender, moist cake with a depth of flavor that will impress every time.

Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to desserts! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or variations that have worked well for you. Happy baking!