California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake Recipe

The California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Known for its creamy, buttery texture and rich flavor, this cake can turn any meal into a celebration. The recipe is simple but requires a bit of finesse, making it an enjoyable challenge for home bakers. 

Whether you’re looking to replicate California Pizza Kitchen’s iconic butter cake or just want to impress your guests with a delicious treat, this guide will help you achieve a restaurant-quality result.

Personal Experience

I first tried the California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake at a birthday party and was instantly hooked. The moist, butter-rich cake with a slightly crispy outer edge was unlike anything I had ever tasted.

Since then, I’ve enjoyed recreating this recipe at home, tweaking it to perfection each time.

Equipment List

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake tester or toothpick

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup sour cream

California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake Recipe – Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the cake pan with a little butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2:

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, whisking them together until evenly distributed.

Step 3:

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4:

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, mixing until just incorporated.

Step 5:

Combine Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

Gently fold the sour cream into the mixture until the cake batter becomes uniform and smooth.

Step 6:

Prepare to Bake: Transfer the smooth batter into your greased cake pan, leveling off the top to ensure an even bake.

Place the cake in the oven and bake it for about 25-30 minutes. It’s ready when a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean without any residue.

Step 7:

Cooling Process: After baking, let the cake sit in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterwards, move it to a wire rack to cool off entirely.

Tips For Success

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, start with all ingredients at room temperature, particularly the butter and eggs, to ensure the batter mixes evenly.
2. Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
3. Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is at the correct temperature as this can affect the baking time.
4. Use Quality Butter: Since butter is a key flavor, opt for high-quality butter for the best results.
5. Cake Doneness: Test the cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid over-baking.

Variations

• Lemon Zest: Add zest of one lemon to the batter for a citrusy twist.
• Berry Topping: Serve with a berry compote on top for added freshness.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey surprise.
• Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Caramel Drizzle: Top the cooled cake with caramel sauce for a decadent finish.

Conclusion

This California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Its indulgent buttery flavor and rich, moist texture make it the perfect dessert for any gathering. 

With these easy steps and helpful tips, you’ll be able to create a show-stopping butter cake that’s just as delicious as the original. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make the butter cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This butter cake can be baked a day in advance. Ensure it is completely cooled before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to maintain its moisture. Store at room temperature and add any toppings or fresh elements right before serving.

How should I store leftovers of the butter cake?

If you have leftovers, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, although the texture is best enjoyed at room temperature.

What’s the best way to serve the California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake?

The cake is best served slightly warm. If it has been refrigerated, gently reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds. This will enhance its buttery flavor and soft texture, making it feel freshly baked.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of the California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use a plant-based milk and sour cream substitute.

Be aware that making substitutions may slightly modify the cake’s original flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the butter cake?

Yes, the butter cake freezes well. Wrap the completely cooled cake or individual slices securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can freeze the cake for up to three months, maintaining its freshness.

For serving, thaw the cake either at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.