This insanely moist Copycat Butter Cake Recipe is a dupe for the Crumbl Butter Cake and the warm butter cake at California Pizza Kitchen. I have had both (many times) and find they are VERY similar in texture and flavor. So if you enjoy either of those, or just love a warm butter cake, you will LOVE this easy recipe!

- This uncomplicated butter cake recipe boasts a remarkably short ingredient list, making it effortlessly easy to prepare. A simple yet impressive recipe ideal for novice bakers seeking to wow their audience.
- Inspired by California Pizza Kitchen’s iconic Butter Cake and Crumbl’s rotating menu, this “copycat” recipe perfectly captures the essence of these beloved desserts. These rich, velvety treats are often paired with a chilled scoop of creamy ice cream, while others, like Crumbl, take it to the next level by serving them warm and topping them with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped frosting.
- Upon cooling, this cake yields a remarkably similar texture to a decadently rich and indulgent pound cake, boasting an unparalleled level of moisture. This tender and moist vanilla sponge cake is the perfect canvas for showcasing a medley of sweet and tangy toppings – from the golden nectar of honey to the fluffy peaks of whipped cream, and from the delicate sprinkles of powdered sugar to the vibrant hues of assorted berries.

With a surprisingly small number of ingredients, this cake recipe’s simplicity is indeed its major draw. You might already possess everything you need to get started in your own kitchen – and that’s simply too tantalizing to resist? Don’t miss the essential details! Scroll down for the complete recipe.
- . I’m a big fan of using high-quality, salted butter in my baking. It gives the treats an extra layer of flavor and tenderness that’s hard to replicate with other types of butter. With such a straightforward recipe, it’s crucial to infuse robust flavors to make up for the limited ingredients. Using salted butter helps to balance the sweetness in the cake and adds depth to its flavor profile.
- . Some of the ingredients will be incorporated into the cake batter, while others will be used to grease the pan, resulting in a delightful crispy crust on the finished product. It’s delicious!
- . Flour and sugar are two fundamental components typically found in the majority of cake formulations. The baking powder enables the cake to rise effectively, while the salt provides a subtle yet essential depth of flavour. Since unsalted butter lacks added salt, it’s crucial to adjust the amount of supplementary salt in your recipe to achieve the desired flavor profile.
- . Vanilla bean paste or a harmonious blend of vanilla and almond extracts are both viable alternatives to traditional vanilla. While I generally stick to using plain flavors, I’ve found that adding a hint of almond extract can elevate the dish’s complexity and depth nicely. This addition subtly enhances the overall sweetness without overpowering the other flavors, much like the gentle layers of a well-crafted wedding cake.
- . Large-sized eggs are used in this recipe. As ingredients are added to the batter, they are combined with a thorough mixing process after each individual contribution.
- . The use of buttermilk in this recipe yields an impressively tender and moist texture to the cake. It’s a texture-maker! Don’t have buttermilk on hand? Try our simple guide to making homemade buttermilk instead. This simplicity is truly a game-changer.
- . I typically opt for all-purpose flour that’s specifically labeled as being suitable for baking.

- . When preparing baked goods, adhering to this fundamental principle is crucial for achieving consistent results, guaranteeing a perfectly baked cake or treat.
- . The allure of this warm-from-the-oven cake lies in its very nature: it’s intended to be savored fresh from the oven, rendering concerns about temperature a non-issue. If you prepare the cake ahead of time, reheat it in the microwave before serving for optimal flavor and texture. You can certainly enjoy it at room temperature.
- ! Once you’ve combined the flour and buttermilk to form a batter, stop mixing immediately. The tender crumb of this cake is undeniably alluring, yet the perils of overmixing threaten to transform its delightful texture into an uninviting density.


This versatile brownie recipe yields perfectly portioned individual servings, reminiscent of those found at California Pizza Kitchen and Crumbl, while also allowing for effortless slicing and serving as a single, whole cake – ideal for those without mini ramekins.
- Prepare individual ramekins by coating the insides with non-stick spray and placing a small parchment round in each one. Dust the ramekins with a generous coating of granulated sugar, followed by filling each approximately three-fourths of the way to the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until the centre is set; insert a toothpick to confirm it emerges pristine.
- Prepare a 9-inch round baking pan by generously coating the interior with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage. Next, place a circular sheet of parchment paper within the pan, extending slightly beyond its perimeter to facilitate easy removal of the baked good once it’s done. Preheat the pan by coating its entirety with a measured amount of granulated sugar, followed by pouring in the prepared cake batter. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the centre of the cake is fully set, as confirmed by a toothpick emerging cleanly from the batter.


With its versatility being one of the most exciting aspects, this copycat butter cake recipe offers a multitude of ways to indulge in its rich and decadent goodness. Here is some inspiration:
- . Savoring this cake while it’s still warm is truly delightful for me. As the ice cream dissolves, a rich, velvety delight emerges, indulging senses in a decadent, buttery goodness that defies expectations.
- . Savoring a rich slice of cake, freshly baked and served at room temperature, pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee to start your day off right. You won’t be disappointed.
- . Whether serving individual portions or as a layered cake, this dessert pairs exquisitely with freshly whipped cream and sweet berries – such as succulent strawberries – to create an indulgent Strawberry Shortcake experience.


Keep this cake tightly sealed and store it at room temperature for up to three days. You can store this cake in an airtight container and freeze it for up to two months. Enabling it to thaw naturally at room temperature prior to serving or reheating allows for optimal flavor and texture.
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Description
This butter cake recipe draws inspiration from the rich, warm butter cakes served at California Pizza Kitchen and Crumbl Cookie. This warm, comforting dessert is absolutely divine when served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
- salted butter, room temperature
- granulated sugar, with additional amounts reserved for lightly dusting the prepared baking pan.
- baking powder
- kosher salt
- Vanilla extracts, alone or in harmonious combination with almond extracts, are the perfect accents for baked goods and beyond.
- large eggs
- all purpose flour
- buttermilk
Notes
Using 6-ounce ramekins yields perfect individual servings. Prepared individually with non-stick cooking spray, a silicone baking mat, and granulated sugar, as instructed earlier. Pour approximately half a cup of batter into each mold until it is three quarters full. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the centre is set?