Kentucky Butter Cake is a timeless classic that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This ultra-moist bundt cake is soaked in a sweet vanilla butter glaze that seeps in, creating a delightful flavor experience. Rich and buttery, this cake is perfect for gatherings and even better the next day when allowed to sit. It’s a must-have dessert for any occasion, particularly if you’re looking to impress your family or guests.
Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Butter Cake
This Kentucky Butter Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Here are some reasons why this cake will become your new favorite:
- Ultra-moist texture that melts in your mouth.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up.
- Perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
- Can be made ahead of time for convenience.
- Versatile; pairs well with ice cream or fresh fruit.
- Rich vanilla flavor that everyone loves.
- A traditional Southern dessert that evokes nostalgia.
- Perfect for any season or occasion.
This cake truly embodies the spirit of a Southern Butter Cake and is a beloved recipe, often referred to as a Kentucky Cake Recipe.
Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake
Gather these items:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter (for glaze)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (added off heat)
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F and generously butter and flour a 10-cup bundt pan.
- Step 2: Beat softened butter and sugar until pale, light, and fluffy.
- Step 3: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 5: Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with flour.
- Step 6: Mix just until combined, then stir in vanilla.
- Step 7: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 60–70 minutes, until a skewer comes out clean.
- Step 8: For the glaze, melt butter in a saucepan, then add sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves.
- Step 9: Remove glaze from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Step 10: While cake is warm, poke holes all over with a skewer.
- Step 11: Pour half the warm glaze over the cake, let absorb, then pour remaining glaze on top.
- Step 12: Cool cake for 30 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Kentucky Butter Cake
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use a bundt pan for the best results; this cake needs its shape!
- Let the cake cool before pouring the glaze to prevent it from melting away.
- For an extra twist, try adding cream cheese for a Kentucky Butter Cake with cream cheese variation.
Best Ways to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake
When it comes to serving, this cake is wonderfully versatile:
- Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for a lovely presentation.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Try it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a rich twist.
How to Store and Reheat Kentucky Butter Cake
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm again!
Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Butter Cake
What’s the secret to perfect Kentucky Butter Cake?
The secret to a perfect Kentucky Butter Cake lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. Make sure to alternate adding them to keep the batter light and fluffy.
Can I make Kentucky Butter Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Just store it properly to maintain its moisture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Kentucky Butter Cake?
Common mistakes include overmixing the batter and not allowing the cake to cool before glazing. Follow the steps closely for a delightful outcome.
Variations of Kentucky Butter Cake You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with your Kentucky Butter Cake! Here are some delicious variations:
- Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Incorporate nuts for added texture.
- Try a chocolate glaze instead of vanilla for a decadent flavor.
- Make a Kentucky Butter Pudding Cake by altering the baking time and adding more liquid.
For more delicious recipes, check out our desserts category or try making easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat. You can also explore homemade tomato sauce for a savory option!
For additional information on baking techniques, visit King Arthur Baking.
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Kentucky Butter Cake: 12 Reasons to Indulge in Moist Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Kentucky Butter Cake is a classic, ultra-moist bundt cake soaked with a warm vanilla butter glaze that melts into every bite. Rich, nostalgic, and even better the next day, it’s a timeless dessert perfect for gatherings and make-ahead baking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter (for glaze)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (added off heat)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F and generously butter and flour a 10-cup bundt pan.
- Beat softened butter and sugar until pale, light, and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with flour.
- Mix just until combined, then stir in vanilla.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 60–70 minutes, until a skewer comes out clean.
- For the glaze, melt butter in a saucepan, then add sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves.
- Remove glaze from heat and stir in vanilla.
- While cake is warm, poke holes all over with a skewer.
- Pour half the warm glaze over the cake, let absorb, then pour remaining glaze on top.
- Cool cake for 30 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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