Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake has earned its place as a beloved dessert for anyone who loves rich, buttery flavors with a moist, tender crumb. This iconic cake combines simplicity with indulgence, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or everyday cravings. We’re excited to share a recipe that brings this classic Italian-American dessert right into our kitchens.
What makes this cake truly stand out is its luscious butter base paired with a hint of vanilla, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into recreating the magic of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, so we can enjoy every bite of this timeless dessert together.
Ingredients
To create the iconic Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, we need to gather all essential ingredients that bring out its rich buttery flavor and moist texture. Below are the detailed ingredients divided into the cake batter, butter sauce, and Optional Garnishes to achieve authentic results.
For the Cake Batter
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour — sifted for a light texture
- 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder — ensures perfect rise
- ½ teaspoon salt — balances sweetness
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter — softened to room temperature for richness
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar — for sweetness and structure
- 4 large eggs — at room temperature for better emulsification
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract — the hallmark of the cake’s flavor
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk — adds moisture and tenderness
For the Butter Sauce
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter — melted, forms the luscious sauce
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar — for smooth sweetness
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract — echoes the cake’s buttery flavor
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream — creates a silky, pourable consistency
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice — adds a subtle tang to balance the richness
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries) — for a vibrant contrast
- Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts — add crunch and texture
- Whipped cream — light and airy complement
- Powdered sugar dusting — for presentation and subtle sweetness
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cake Batter | Flour, baking powder, salt, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, milk | Structure, moisture, richness, flavor |
| Butter Sauce | Butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, heavy cream, lemon juice | Adds moisture, sweetness, and shine |
| Optional Garnishes | Fresh berries, nuts, whipped cream, powdered sugar | Enhance texture, flavor, and appearance |
Equipment Needed
To perfectly recreate Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, having the right equipment on hand is crucial. Each tool helps us achieve the iconic moist texture and rich buttery flavor with precision and ease.
Essential Baking Tools
- 9×13-inch baking pan
This size is ideal for the cake’s thickness and even baking. We recommend a heavy-gauge metal pan for consistent heat distribution.
- Mixing bowls
Use a large bowl for the cake batter and a smaller one for the butter sauce. Glass or stainless steel bowls maintain cold or room temperature ingredients well.
- Electric mixer
A stand mixer or hand mixer speeds up creaming butter and sugar and ensures smooth incorporation of eggs for a fluffy batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Accurate measurement of flour, sugar, and liquids is critical to replicate the cake’s signature texture.
- Rubber spatula
For scraping down bowl sides, folding in ingredients gently, and ensuring no batter goes to waste.
- Whisk
Useful for mixing the butter sauce thoroughly to a smooth consistency.
- Cooling rack
We place the cake here straight out of the oven to cool evenly and prevent sogginess.
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve
To aerate flour and powdered sugar, ensuring a light and tender crumb.
Optional Garnish Tools
- Fine mesh sieve (for dusting powdered sugar)
- Piping bag and tips (if adding whipped cream decoration)
- Small mixing bowl (for folding chopped nuts or mixing berries)
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13-inch baking pan | Provides ideal cake shape and thickness | Prefer heavy-gauge metal pan |
| Mixing bowls | Mixing batter and butter sauce | Glass or stainless steel |
| Electric mixer | Creaming butter and sugar, mixing eggs | Stand or hand mixer works |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Precise ingredient measurements | Use standard US cups/spoons |
| Rubber spatula | Scraping and folding ingredients | Flexible and heat-resistant |
| Whisk | Mixing butter sauce | Stainless steel preferred |
| Cooling rack | Cooling cake evenly | Wire rack with feet |
| Sifter/fine mesh sieve | Aerating flour and powdered sugar | Key for tender crumb and garnish |
Having these tools ready ensures each step flows smoothly, and we create a cake that lives up to Maggiano’s famous Gigi Butter Cake recipe every time.
Preparation
To create the perfect Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, precise preparation is essential. Let’s walk through setting up our pans, oven, and measuring the ingredients accurately to ensure the best results.
Preparing the Cake Pans
We start by preparing our 9×13-inch baking pan, which is vital for even baking and the cake’s signature texture. Lightly grease the pan with unsalted butter or use a non-stick cooking spray. Then, dust the inside lightly with flour, tapping out the excess to prevent sticking. For extra insurance, we can line the bottom with parchment paper cut to size. This ensures smooth release and perfect edges.
Preheating the Oven
Next** we preheat our oven to 350°F (175°C)**. A fully preheated oven is crucial to help the cake rise evenly and develop its moist crumb. We recommend setting the oven temperature before even starting the batter preparation to maintain consistent heat throughout baking.
| Step | Temperature (°F) | Temperature (°C) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 350 | 175 | Use center rack placement |
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements are the backbone of recreating Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake authentically. We suggest using dry measuring cups for flour and sugar and liquid measuring cups for milk and butter to ensure precision. Always level off dry ingredients with a flat edge and measure liquids at eye level.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tool | Measurement Tip |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Dry measuring cup | Spoon into cup and level off |
| Granulated sugar | Dry measuring cup | Scoop and level evenly |
| Unsalted butter | Liquid/dry measuring cup or scale | Measure softened butter accurately |
| Whole milk | Liquid measuring cup | Read at eye level |
| Eggs | Count carefully | Use large eggs at room temp |
By following these preparation steps meticulously, we set a strong foundation to bake the luscious Gigi Butter Cake exactly as Maggiano’s intended.
Directions
Let’s bring together all our preparations and ingredients to create the irresistible Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake. Follow each step carefully for that signature moist texture and buttery flavor.
Making the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry flour mixture and whole milk to the butter mixture beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is incorporated.
Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes.
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bake the cake | 350°F (175°C) | 35 to 40 min |
| Cool in pan | Room temp | 15 min |
Preparing the Butter Sauce
- While the cake is baking, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until fully dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract, heavy cream, and lemon juice, whisking continuously. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thickened but still pourable.
Pouring the Butter Sauce Over the Cake
- When the cake has cooled for 15 minutes but is still warm, slowly pour the warm butter sauce evenly over the top.
- Use a spatula to gently spread the sauce if needed, allowing it to soak in completely.
- Let the cake cool further and absorb the sauce before slicing.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh berries, chopped nuts, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
By following these steps precisely, our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake will emerge moist, rich, and flavorful—just as famous as the original.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the richness and moist texture of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, we recommend several serving ideas that highlight its distinctive butter and vanilla flavors.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature to appreciate the buttery sauce’s full effect.
- Dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant look.
- Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on the side to balance the cake’s richness with a creamy texture.
Fruit Pairings
The cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries which add a refreshing contrast. For instance:
- Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide sweetness and a slight tartness.
- Arrange a handful of mixed berries along the edges of each slice or scatter them across the top.
- You can also serve a berry compote alongside for added moisture and flavor complexity.
Nutty Enhancements
Add a bit of crunch by sprinkling chopped nuts such as:
- Toasted pecans
- Sliced almonds
- Chopped walnuts
These nuts contrast perfectly with the soft, buttery cake and amplify the overall sensory experience.
Sauces and Condiments
For a gourmet twist, we suggest:
- Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the top.
- Serving with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or lemon sorbet for a temperature and flavor balance.
| Serving Idea | Description | Suggested Garnishes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | Warm or room temperature | Powdered sugar, whipped cream |
| Fruit Pairings | Fresh or stewed berries | Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries |
| Nutty Enhancements | Adds textural crunch | Toasted pecans, sliced almonds, walnuts |
| Sauces & Condiments | Adds richness or temperature contrast | Caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, ice cream |
Portioning Tips
- Cut the cake into 2×2 inch squares for bite-sized servings, perfect for parties or gatherings.
- For dessert plates, serve 1-2 larger slices accompanied by your chosen garnishes for an indulgent treat.
By combining these serving methods with our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe, we ensure every bite delivers a memorable and delicious experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake with minimal fuss on the day of serving, we can prepare several components ahead of time. This approach helps maintain the cake’s rich buttery flavor and moist texture while saving us valuable time.
Prepare the Cake Batter in Advance
- Mix the cake batter fully following the recipe instructions.
- Pour the batter into the greased and floured baking pan.
- Cover the pan securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Note: Refrigerating the batter can enhance flavor development.
- When ready to bake, bring the batter to room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven and bake as directed in the recipe.
Make the Butter Sauce Ahead
- Combine all butter sauce ingredients as instructed.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Warm gently over low heat or in the microwave before pouring over the cake to restore its silky texture.
Bake Ahead and Store
- Bake the cake fully and allow it to cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Wrap in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- If refrigerated, warm the cake slightly before serving to revive its moistness.
Tips for Serving After Make-Ahead Storage
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Reheating | Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes |
| Sauce Application | Pour warmed butter sauce over cake just before serving |
| Garnishing | Add fresh whipped cream and berries last for freshness |
“Storing the cake and sauce separately and warming them before serving ensures the best quality and flavor retention for our butter cake experience.“
Utilizing these make-ahead tips allows us to plan ahead without sacrificing the distinctive buttery richness and moist crumb that make Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake so beloved.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake fresh and delicious, following proper storage methods is essential. Here are the best steps to store, preserve, and reheat this rich buttery dessert.
Storing Freshly Baked Cake
- Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature.
- Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Store it in an airtight container if possible to maintain moisture and prevent absorption of odors from the fridge.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room temperature | Up to 2 days | Keep covered and away from direct heat |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Use airtight container for best results |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic and foil |
Refrigeration Guidelines
Refrigerating the Gigi Butter Cake slows down spoilage but can slightly firm the texture. To minimize hardness, remove from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften at room temperature. Covering the cake well prevents it from absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
When freezing, wrap the cake tightly first in plastic wrap then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. We recommend freezing individual slices or the entire cake based on convenience. Before serving, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, then bring it to room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating Tips
To revive the moist and buttery texture after refrigeration or freezing:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place cake on an oven-safe dish covered with foil.
- Heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Optionally drizzle some prepared butter sauce on top before reheating for extra richness.
Butter Sauce Storage
Store the butter sauce separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm gently before serving to drizzle over the cake. This keeps our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake tasting fresh and indulgent.
“Proper storage ensures our buttery cake stays just as moist and flavorful on day two as on day one.“
By adhering to these storage and reheating tips, we can savor the luxurious flavor and moist texture of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake any time.
Conclusion
Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and indulgence to any table. With the right ingredients and a little patience, we can easily recreate this moist and buttery treat at home.
By following proper storage and reheating tips, we ensure every slice tastes just as delightful as the first. Whether for a special celebration or a simple sweet craving, this cake never fails to impress.
Let’s enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of Gigi Butter Cake whenever the mood strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake unique?
Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is known for its rich butter flavor, moist texture, and classic Italian-American taste, combining a buttery cake with a luscious butter sauce for a truly decadent dessert.
What are the essential ingredients for Gigi Butter Cake?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, whole milk for the cake, and melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, heavy cream, and lemon juice for the butter sauce.
What equipment do I need to bake the cake?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups, and utensils like spatulas for mixing and serving.
Can I prepare the cake batter ahead of time?
Yes, the cake batter can be made and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking for convenience and even better flavor.
How should I store the cake after baking?
Store the cooled cake covered tightly at room temperature up to 2 days, in the fridge up to 5 days, or freeze it up to 3 months in an airtight container.
How do I reheat the Gigi Butter Cake?
Reheat the cake gently in the oven or microwave to restore its moist texture, and warm the butter sauce separately before serving.
What garnishes work best with this cake?
Optional garnishes include fresh berries, chopped nuts, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance flavor and presentation.
Can I make the butter sauce in advance?
Yes, the butter sauce can be prepared up to three days ahead and refrigerated; warm it before pouring over the cake.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture make it a perfect dessert for celebrations or everyday indulgence.
How long does it take to bake Gigi Butter Cake?
Baking time typically ranges between 35 to 45 minutes, until the cake is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.