Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, moist, and buttery pound cake soaked in a delicious buttery glaze. Here’s how to make this classic Southern treat:
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Butter Glaze:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or use a baking spray with flour.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Add the softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed and mix for 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Make the Butter Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Glaze the Cake:
- While the cake is still warm in the pan, use a skewer or toothpick to poke small holes all over the surface.
- Slowly pour the butter glaze over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
6. Cool and Invert:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes to absorb the glaze.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate and let it cool completely.
7. Serve:
- Slice and serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t rush pouring the glaze—allow it to soak in gradually for maximum flavor.
Enjoy your Kentucky Butter Cake—a crowd-pleasing dessert with irresistible buttery goodness! 🥮✨