Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe: A Rich and Moist Dessert

The Legend of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

There’s a reason why Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is a legend. This incredibly moist and flavorful cake, with its rich, buttery crumb and delicate vanilla glaze, has been a beloved dessert at the Italian-American restaurant chain for years.

While the exact origin story might be shrouded in a bit of mystery, the cake’s enduring popularity speaks volumes. It’s a dessert that brings back memories of warm gatherings, family celebrations, and of course, delicious Italian-inspired treats.

Now, you can recreate this iconic dessert in your own kitchen. This recipe walks you through every step, ensuring you capture the essence of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake in all its glory.

Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe Card

This classic Italian dessert, inspired by Maggiano’s, is a rich and decadent butter cake that’s sure to impress. To make the perfect Gigi Butter Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment.

Ingredients:

• 240 g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 300 g (2 cups) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Equipment:

• 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Temperature and Baking Time:

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

For a perfectly golden crust, rotate the cake halfway through baking.

Ingredients for Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

To make the authentic Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, gather the following ingredients:

• 340 g / 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 200 g / 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 115 g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
• Optional ingredients:
  • Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for added texture
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract for enhanced flavor
  • Fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this will help the cake mix come together smoothly. The cake will be baked in a preheated oven at 165 °C / 325 °F.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

Get ready to bake this irresistible classic! Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 240g (1 cup) all-purpose flour, 120g (1 cup) granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together 170g (1 cup) unsalted butter with 120g (1 cup) granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 240ml (1 cup) milk until the batter is smooth.
7. Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Frost: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting.

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

Making a Gigi Butter Cake that rivals the original requires attention to detail and a few expert tricks up your sleeve. Here are our top tips to ensure your cake turns out moist, fluffy, and utterly delicious.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing is a common pitfall when making butter cake. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together until just combined. This will help preserve the delicate structure of the cake.

Use European-Style Butter at Room Temperature

European-style butter has a higher butterfat content than regular butter, which is essential for creating a moist and tender crumb. Make sure to take the butter out of the fridge about an hour before starting to ensure it reaches room temperature.

Don’t Overbake

The Gigi Butter Cake is best when it’s lightly golden brown and still slightly tender in the center. Check the cake frequently during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid overbaking, which can result in a dry and crumbly texture.

Let the Cake Cool Completely

Resist the temptation to slice into the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Letting the cake cool completely will help the butter to set and the cake to retain its moisture.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

To accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences, several ingredients in the Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake recipe can be substituted or altered. For a dairy-free version, replace the 240 g / 1 cup of unsalted butter with 240 g / 1 cup of vegan butter or margarine. This substitution may affect the flavor slightly, resulting in a slightly less rich taste.

• Replace 300 g / 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour with 300 g / 1 3/4 cups of gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Use 180 g / 3/4 cup of granulated sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol, for a lower-sugar version.
• Swap 2 large eggs with 2 flax eggs or 1/2 cup of mashed banana for an egg-free alternative.

Note that these substitutions may affect the texture and flavor of the cake. Bake the cake at 165 °C / 325 °F and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the cake is fully cooked.

Creative Variations on Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

The classic Gigi Butter Cake is a delicious base for endless variations. Let your creativity flow and transform this simple dessert into something truly special.

Flavor Twists

1. Citrus Burst: Add the zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon to the batter for a bright and refreshing twist. Bake time remains the same.
2. Chocolate Indulgence: Stir in 1/2 cup (60 g) of melted dark chocolate to the batter for a rich and decadent experience. Baking time may increase slightly by 5-10 minutes.

Topping Transformations

• Berrylicious Bliss: Top the cooled cake with a generous layer of fresh berries and a drizzle of honey or lemon glaze.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the batter before baking for a crunchy and flavorful addition.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different flavor combinations, toppings, and even fillings to create your own signature Gigi Butter Cake masterpiece.

Storing and Freezing Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake: Tips for Long-Term Freshness

Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, it’s essential to learn how to store and freeze it to maintain its signature moistness and flavor.

Room Temperature Storage

For short-term storage, keep your Gigi Butter Cake at room temperature (20-22°C / 68-72°F) for up to 2 days. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Refrigeration

For longer storage, refrigerate the cake at 4-6°C (39-43°F) for up to 5 days. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.

Freezing

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
• Store the frozen cake at -18°C (0°F) for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to serve, thaw the frozen cake at room temperature or refrigerate it overnight. Always check the cake for freshness before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

When preparing the Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe, several issues may arise that can affect the final result. Identifying and resolving these problems is crucial to achieving the desired taste and texture.

Common Problems and Fixes

The following are some common issues that may occur during the preparation and baking of the Gigi Butter Cake, along with their solutions:

• Underbaked or overbaked cake: Check the cake’s internal temperature, which should be around 90°C / 194°F. Adjust the baking time as needed to achieve the perfect doneness.
• Uneven cake layers: Ensure that the cake pans are level and that the batter is evenly distributed. Rotate the pans halfway through the baking time to promote even cooking.
• Insufficient butter flavor: Use high-quality, salted butter (240 g / 1 cup) and ensure it is at room temperature before mixing. This will help to create a rich, buttery flavor in the cake.
• Too dense or dry cake: Check the ingredient measurements, particularly the ratio of flour (300 g / 2 1/4 cups) to liquid ingredients. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.

By being aware of these potential issues and taking steps to prevent or resolve them, the Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe can be successfully prepared and enjoyed.

Nutritional Information for Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

Craving Gigi Butter Cake but wondering about the nutritional impact? Here’s a breakdown to help you make informed choices.

Per Serving (approximately 1/12 of the cake):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 45g
• Protein: 4g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary slightly depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Diet Tags: This recipe is not gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

Get the answers you need to make the perfect Gigi Butter Cake, just like Maggiano’s.

Ingredients and Preparation

• What type of flour should I use? All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe.
• Can I substitute unsalted butter with salted butter? Yes, but omit the additional salt called for in the recipe.
• How long does the cake take to bake? The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, typically 25-30 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

Storage and Serving

• How long does the cake stay fresh? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Can I make the cake ahead of time? Yes, prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

For more information, consult the original Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake recipe.

Key Takeaways for Making the Perfect Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

To achieve the signature taste and texture of Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake, several key factors must be considered. The cake’s success hinges on using high-quality ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature, and 400 g / 2 cups of granulated sugar.

• Accurate oven temperature is crucial, preheat to 165°C / 325°F for even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
• Resting time is essential; let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

By following these essential tips and using the right ingredients, the resulting Gigi Butter Cake will be moist, flavorful, and reminiscent of Maggiano’s signature dessert. Attention to detail and patience are vital in producing a cake that meets the high standards of this beloved recipe.

A Slice of Nostalgia: My Take on Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

There are certain desserts that evoke powerful memories, and for me, Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake is one of them. I remember the first time I tasted it – a warm, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth delight that perfectly captured the essence of comfort food. The cake’s simple elegance, with its delicate crumb and rich, creamy frosting, has always resonated with me.

Over the years, I’ve tried countless butter cake recipes, but none have quite matched the magic of Gigi’s. That’s why I’ve dedicated myself to recreating this iconic dessert, capturing its unique flavor profile and texture. I believe this recipe will transport you back to those cherished moments of indulgence and create new memories for years to come.

Beyond the Recipe: A Legacy of Flavor

Gigi Butter Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of Maggiano’s warm hospitality and commitment to quality. This recipe is a tribute to that legacy, a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted dessert.

Enjoy Your Delicious Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake

With the Gigi Butter Cake recipe, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, moist, and indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress. The combination of buttery flavors, tender crumb, and velvety texture will leave you and your loved ones craving for more.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to your liking. Try adding different flavor combinations or substituting ingredients to create a unique twist on this classic dessert.

We hope you’ve enjoyed baking the Gigi Butter Cake as much as we have. Be sure to explore more of our dessert recipes for more sweet treats to try!