Maggianos Butter Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at Maggiano’s Little Italy, you likely remember their irresistible butter cake — warm, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. 

Now, you don’t need to make a reservation to experience this dessert again. This Maggianos Butter Cake recipe brings that same indulgent flavor into your kitchen.

It’s a decadent treat that balances a moist, buttery center with a golden, slightly crisp crust. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or just spoiling yourself on the weekend, this dessert is pure comfort in every bite. 

With a few pantry staples and a bit of baking love, you’ll have a restaurant-quality butter cake that could easily steal the show. 

This guide offers step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and creative variations, all crafted to make this an approachable bake for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. 

Get ready to impress with the best homemade version of the Maggianos Butter Cake recipe you’ll find online.

Personal Experience

I first tasted the butter cake at Maggiano’s during a birthday dinner, and it instantly became my favorite dessert. 

The warm, gooey center paired with cold ice cream was unforgettable. I’ve since tested dozens of versions at home, and this Maggianos Butter Cake recipe is the closest I’ve come to recreating that iconic flavor. 

It’s become a staple at our family gatherings — and always the first thing to disappear from the dessert table!

Equipment List

To make this Maggianos Butter Cake recipe, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 4 small ramekins or a 9-inch round cake pan
• Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
• Cooling rack
• Oven

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this rich and buttery dessert:

For the cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup whole milk
  ¼ cup sour cream

For topping (optional but recommended):

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Fresh berries
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Maggianos Butter Cake Recipe – Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: 

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease ramekins or a cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: 

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: 

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and almond extract if using.

Step 4: 

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: 

Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, followed by the milk. Mix gently. Add the remaining dry ingredients, then fold in the sour cream until the batter is smooth.

Step 6: 

Pour the batter evenly into ramekins or cake pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 7: 

Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter — this can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
• Use ramekins for individual servings that feel extra special and bake evenly.
• Let the cake cool slightly before serving — this enhances the texture and flavor.
• Sour cream is key — it adds moisture and richness that defines this Maggianos Butter Cake recipe.

Variations

1. Lemon Zest Butter Cake: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright citrus twist.
2. Chocolate Swirl: Gently fold in a bit of melted chocolate or chocolate chips before baking.
3. Berry Compote Topping: Replace ice cream with a homemade berry compote for a fruitier finish.
4. Salted Caramel Drizzle: Top your cake with warm caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt.
5. Mini Bundt Style: Use a mini bundt pan for a visually stunning and classic presentation of this Maggianos Butter Cake recipe.

Conclusion

Recreating the Maggianos Butter Cake recipe at home is easier than you might think — and the results are heavenly.

With its luscious texture, buttery flavor, and endless topping options, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. 

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a sweet escape into restaurant-quality indulgence. 

Give it a try, and bring the taste of Maggiano’s into your own kitchen today.

FAQs

How do I store leftover Maggianos butter cake?

Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. You can refrigerate the cake for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to restore its soft texture.

Can I freeze the Maggianos Butter Cake?

Yes! Let the cake cool completely, then wrap it in foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up before serving.

Is there a gluten-free version of the Maggianos Butter Cake recipe?

Absolutely. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

The rest of the Maggianos Butter Cake recipe remains the same, and the results are just as delicious.

What can I serve with Maggianos Butter Cake?

This indulgent cake pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce.

These toppings complement the buttery richness and make the dish even more memorable.