Kentucky Butter Cake: A Rich, Moist, and Buttery Delight

Ingredients: Simple and Rich

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Kentucky Butter Cake:

For the Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups for the base of the cake.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups for sweetness.
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon to help the cake rise.
• Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon for a tender crumb.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to balance the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened, to give the cake its rich, buttery flavor.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup for moisture and a slight tang.
• Eggs: 4 large eggs to bind the ingredients and add structure.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for flavor.

For the Butter Glaze:

• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick) for a rich glaze.
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup for sweetness.
• Water: 2 tablespoons to dissolve the sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan, making sure to coat all the nooks and crannies.

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

1. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

1. Alternate Adding Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool the Cake:

• Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. While the cake cools, prepare the butter glaze.

For the Butter Glaze:

1. Make the Glaze:

• In a small saucepan, melt the  butter over medium heat. Stir in the  sugar and water, and cook until the sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

1. Pour the Glaze Over the Cake:

• While the cake is still in the Bundt pan, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Slowly pour the butter glaze over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.

1. Cool and Remove the Cake:

• Let the cake cool completely in the pan, allowing it to absorb the glaze. Once cooled, invert the cake onto a serving plate.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice the cake and serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Variations and Tips

• Add a Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
• Glaze Alternative: For a slightly different twist, you can make a lemon glaze by substituting the vanilla with lemon juice and zest in the glaze recipe.
• Keep It Fresh: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freeze for Later: This cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion: A Decadent Southern Classic

This Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery, and incredibly moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb and sweet butter glaze, this cake has a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you serve it as a stand-alone dessert or with a side of whipped cream or ice cream, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!