Gluten-Free French Butter Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Gluten-Free French Butter Cake combines a rich buttery base with a smooth, creamy cream cheese topping. It’s an indulgent treat that’s easy to make and perfect for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients
- 1 Pillsbury Gluten-Free Yellow Cake Mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs (for the bottom layer)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs (for the top layer)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: In a second large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, remaining 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Step 4: Press the cake mix mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 5: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the bottom layer and spread it evenly.
- Step 6: Bake in the center of the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when it no longer jiggles when moved. Note that the toothpick test will not work for this cake.
- Step 7: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Step 8: Serve and enjoy your rich, gluten-free French butter cake!
Tips & Variations
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the topping mixture.
- For added flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the top layer.
- If you prefer a less sweet top, reduce powdered sugar to 3 cups.
- Use a non-stick baking spray for easier cake removal.
Storage
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat individual squares gently in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, but the cake is delicious served chilled as well.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular yellow cake mix instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute with regular yellow cake mix if gluten is not a concern. The baking time and texture will remain similar.
Why doesn’t the toothpick test work for this cake?
The cream cheese topping remains soft and creamy even when fully baked, so it won’t come out clean like traditional cakes. Instead, check for doneness by gently moving the pan—there should be no noticeable jiggle.
PrintGluten-Free French Butter Cake Recipe
This Gluten-Free French Butter Cake is a rich and creamy dessert with a buttery cake base topped with a smooth, sweet cream cheese layer. Perfect for those seeking a delicious gluten-free treat, this cake combines the softness of a classic butter cake with a luscious cream cheese topping, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, it’s both indulgent and accommodating to gluten-sensitive diets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Bottom Layer
- 1 Pillsbury Gluten-Free Yellow Cake Mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
Top Layer
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Bottom Layer: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth batter.
- Prepare Top Layer: In a separate large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Cake: Press the cake mix batter evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the bottom layer. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top and spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the assembled cake in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. Note that the toothpick test will not work for this cake.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish to set properly.
- Serve and Store: Once cool, cut the cake into squares and serve. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- The toothpick test isn’t reliable for this cake due to the creamy topping, so check doneness by the jiggle test.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth top layer.
- Storage in the refrigerator helps keep the cake fresh and the cream cheese layer firm.
- You can use a non-stick spray instead of butter to grease the pan for easier cleanup.
Keywords: gluten-free butter cake, french butter cake, cream cheese cake, gluten-free dessert, easy cake recipe

