Warm butter cake recipe is a rich, moist dessert known for its golden crust and tender, buttery center. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, it's best served warm, often topped with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries. This indulgent treat is comforting, easy to make, and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings any time.
2cups4 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
1½cupsall-purpose flour
½teaspoonfine sea salt
1½teaspoonsvanilla extract
1cupwhole milk
For the Warm Butter Sauce:
3tablespoonsgranulated sugar
1large egg yolkat room temperature
2ozcream cheeseat room temperature
1teaspoonvanilla paste or vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the ramekins:
Lightly butter each ramekin, making sure to coat the bottom and sides. Sprinkle turbinado sugar into each ramekin, rolling it around to evenly coat. Shake out any excess. This creates a crisp, caramelized crust.
Cream the butter, sugar, and cream cheese:
In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar gradually and continue to beat until fully incorporated and the mixture is pale and smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix again until the batter is smooth and glossy.
Incorporate dry and wet ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the flour mixture to the batter in three parts, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Fill the ramekins and bake:
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet to make transferring easier. Bake in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Make the warm butter sauce:
While the cakes are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and egg yolk. Stir constantly to prevent curdling. Once smooth and slightly thickened, remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Keep warm.
Serve warm:
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the ramekins for about 5–10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and carefully invert onto serving plates. Spoon the warm butter sauce over each cake and serve immediately.
Notes
Be sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results. These cakes can be made a few hours ahead and gently reheated before serving. For extra flair, top with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.