We’ve always been huge fans of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake a decadent Italian-American favorite that’s as irresistible as it is comforting. Originating from the beloved restaurant chain this rich buttery treat combines moist layers with a heavenly flavor profile that captures hearts everywhere.
In our kitchen we’ve perfected this classic recipe to bring its magic home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging solo you’ll love how easy it is to recreate this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
To bring our perfected Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake recipe to life, we’ve curated this list of high-quality ingredients. Ordered as they typically appear in the preparation process, each one contributes to the cake’s irresistible moist layers and rich, comforting Italian-American flavors. Gather these essentials for a dessert that captures the essence of this beloved treat.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened to room temperature, ensuring a creamy base that delivers the signature buttery richness.
- Granulated sugar: 1 ½ cups, for sweetening the batter and creating a tender crumb that balances the cake’s indulgent texture.
- Large eggs: 4, at room temperature, to provide structure and a velvety smoothness that enhances the cake’s moistness.
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups, sifted, as the foundation for the light yet hearty layers that make this cake a crowd-pleaser.
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons, to help the cake rise perfectly, resulting in those fluffy, delightful heights.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to accentuate the flavors and cut through the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Whole milk: 1 cup, at room temperature, adding moisture and a subtle creaminess that ties the ingredients together.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, pure variety preferred, for infusing a warm, aromatic note that elevates the overall Italian-American essence.
- Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated, to introduce a bright, citrusy undertone that complements the buttery’s depth without overpowering it.
Required Equipment
To bring our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake to life after gathering the essential ingredients, we need a selection of reliable kitchen tools. These items ensure precise preparation and perfect results, from mixing the batter to baking the moist layers. We’ve curated this list based on our experience, prioritizing tools that enhance efficiency and accuracy in home baking.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: Two or three medium-sized stainless steel or glass bowls for combining wet and dry ingredients separately. We recommend using ones with a non-slip base to prevent slipping during vigorous mixing.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A hand-held electric mixer or a stand mixer with paddle attachment for creaming the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This tool is crucial for achieving the cake’s signature texture—opt for at least 300 watts for optimal power.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard dry and liquid measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, etc.) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, etc.) to accurately measure ingredients like flour, milk, and vanilla extract. Precision here directly impacts the cake’s moistness and flavor balance.
- 9-inch Round Cake Pan: A high-quality, non-stick or aluminum pan for baking the cake. We suggest one that’s 2-3 inches deep to accommodate the batter’s rise—grease it well or line with parchment paper for easy release.
- Spatula or Rubber Scraper: A flexible silicone spatula for folding in eggs and other ingredients without deflating the batter. It’s ideal for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure even incorporation.
- Whisk: A medium-sized wire whisk for blending smaller batches or incorporating air into the mixture, especially when adding baking powder and salt.
- Oven Thermometer: To verify your oven reaches the exact temperature needed (typically 350°F for this cake), ensuring even baking and preventing over-browning of the top layer.
- Cooling Rack: A wire rack for allowing the baked cake to cool evenly, which helps maintain its rich, moist interior without sogginess.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, making the process straightforward and enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
With our curated ingredients and essential tools in hand, we guide you through creating our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake with precision and ease.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin baking, we ensure all components are prepped for optimal results. Start by softening unsalted butter to room temperature for easy creaming—cut 1 cup into cubes and let it sit for 30 minutes. Measure out 2 cups of granulated sugar and set aside. Crack 4 large eggs into a bowl, then combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt in another bowl for the dry mix. Warm 1 cup of whole milk slightly and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a zesty, aromatic boost that infuses the cake with its signature citrus note.
Mix the Batter
Now we mix the batter to achieve that signature moist texture of our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake. In a stand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy—the mixture should double in volume with a velvety feel. Add the large eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air and create a smooth emulsion. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and the whole milk mixture to the butter base, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, and mix on low speed just until combined—overmixing can toughen the batter, so stop as soon as it’s uniform. As we blend, the vanilla and lemon zest release a fragrant aroma that hints at the cake’s irresistible flavor.
Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch round cake pan for even baking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even rise. Bake on the middle rack for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—the cake should emerge golden-brown with a tender crumb that springs back when lightly pressed. Throughout baking, the kitchen fills with the warm, buttery scent of our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, signaling a perfect, moist treat.
Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set its structure. Then invert it onto the rack to cool completely for another 1-2 hours—the cooling process locks in the rich, buttery layers and enhances the lemon-infused taste. Once cooled, slice and serve this Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake as is for a simple delight or dust with powdered sugar for added elegance, savoring its moist texture and comforting flavors that make it a crowd favorite.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake fresh and flavorful, we offer practical strategies for preparing it in advance and storing it properly. These tips ensure the cake retains its signature moist texture and rich, comforting taste, making it easy to enjoy anytime.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love how make-ahead options let you plan ahead without sacrificing quality. Follow these steps to prepare your Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake efficiently:
- Prepare the Batter in Advance: Mix the batter up to 24 hours ahead. After combining the ingredients as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors—like vanilla extract and lemon zest—to meld, enhancing the cake’s irresistible aroma and taste.
- Bake and Cool Ahead of Time: Bake the full cake a day or two before serving. Once baked and cooled on the rack, wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This method preserves the golden-brown crust and moist layers, so you can focus on serving it fresh when needed.
- Freeze for Longer Prep: For events further in advance, we suggest baking the cake, cooling it completely, and then wrapping it in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freezing maintains the cake’s tender crumb and prevents freezer burn, making it a smart choice for busy schedules.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the moist texture and comforting flavors of our Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake. We recommend these methods based on how soon you plan to enjoy it.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1-2 days | Store in an airtight container to keep the cake’s soft, buttery layers intact. Ideal for short-term enjoyment, but avoid humid areas to prevent sogginess. |
| Refrigerator | 3-5 days | Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place in a sealed container. This slows down staling, ensuring the rich flavor remains vibrant—refrigerate slices separately for easy access. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap in plastic and foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to retain the cake’s moist, golden-brown appeal—avoid microwaving to preserve texture. |
Always check for signs of spoilage, such as off odors or mold, before consuming. By following these guidelines, we help you savor the delightful essence of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake at its best.
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake and sharing how it brings warmth to any table. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a way to create lasting memories with its comforting flavors.
As we wrap up, trust that mastering this cake will boost your baking skills and impress your guests. Let’s get baking and enjoy every delicious bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake?
Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is a rich Italian-American dessert known for its moist layers and comforting flavors. It’s a beloved treat that’s easy to make at home with the right recipe, featuring ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla for a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
You’ll need unsalted butter, granulated sugar, large eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, whole milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. These high-quality items ensure the cake’s signature moistness and rich flavor, making it simple to recreate the classic taste.
What kitchen equipment is required to make this cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric or stand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a 9-inch round cake pan, a spatula, a whisk, an oven thermometer, and a cooling rack. These reliable items help achieve precise preparation and perfect results for baking.
How do I make Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake step by step?
Start by softening butter and measuring ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs, then alternate dry and wet ingredients. Pour batter into a prepared pan and bake at the recommended temperature until golden-brown. Cool on a rack before serving, either plain or dusted with powdered sugar for that moist texture.
How long does it take to bake the cake?
Preheat your oven to the specified temperature, then bake the cake for about 30-40 minutes, or until it’s golden-brown and a tester comes out clean. Total prep and baking time is around 1 hour, followed by cooling for the best results.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance to let flavors meld, or bake the cake 1-2 days ahead. This makes it ideal for gatherings, as it retains its moist texture when stored properly.
How should I store the baked cake?
Store at room temperature for 1-2 days, refrigerate for 3-5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and maintain the rich flavor and moistness for later enjoyment.