You’re about to indulge in a culinary masterpiece: the Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake. This isn’t just a cake; it’s a celebration in your mouth that you won’t forget. When I first tried recreating this recipe at home, the outcome was so divinely rich and scrumptious, that I had to share every decadent detail with you.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American-Italian
Total Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the baking, ensure you have the right tools to bring this cake to life. You’ll need:

A hand mixer or stand mixer
9-inch cake pan
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Cooling rack

Starting with these essential tools ensures your Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake turns out perfect!

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter, softened	1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Eggs	4
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Baking powder	1 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Whole milk	1 cup
Cream cheese	8 oz
Powdered sugar	1/2 cup

Did you know? Butter cake is believed to have originated in the English Victorian era, becoming a tea-time staple.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease your 9-inch cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Always preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Step 2 – Cream the Butter and Sugar

It should take about 3–4 minutes to mix the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 3 – Include eggs and dry ingredients.

One egg at a time should be added, making sure each one is fully mixed in before adding the next.
Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Mixing dry and wet ingredients alternately prevents the batter from curdling and helps maintain a light texture.

Step 4 – Bake

When the pan is ready, pour the batter into it and use a spoon to smooth the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until you can stick a toothpick in the middle and it comes out clean.
Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then move it to a wire rack to cool down.

Step 5 – Frosting

While the cake cools, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together until creamy.
Spread evenly over the cooled cake.

Additional Tips

Creaming Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.
Cake Testing: Check your cake a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.

Pairing Suggestions

This butter cake pairs wonderfully with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. People who like contrast:

Fresh berries
Lemon zest
Nutmeg or cinnamon sprinkle

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	498 kcal
Carbohydrates	58 g
Protein	6 g
Fat	28 g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and serving sizes.

Dietary Information

This Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is perfect for vegetarians. Replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to make it gluten-free.

FAQs about maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe

How can I make this cake moister?

Adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter can enhance the moisture content without altering the flavor significantly.

Can I freeze the butter cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What makes Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake unique?

Its rich buttery flavor and soft, tender crumb set it apart from more traditional cakes. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

For the best flavor and texture, stick with real butter. Margarine can alter both taste and consistency.

What does it mean when the cake is done?

A toothpick stuck in the middle of the cake should come out clean. It should be golden brown.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts can make it taste even better.

Is there a dairy-free version of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake?

You can substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.

Conclusion

Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to the joy of baking. Its simplicity, coupled with its utterly delicious taste, makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Give it a try and see for yourself why it’s been a hit in my kitchen!