Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both rich and comforting, you’ll love this Kentucky Butter Cake recipe.
This cake is incredibly moist, thanks to its buttery batter and the warm butter sauce that seeps in. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the balance of flavors is simply divine.
I adore how straightforward it’s to make—no fancy techniques required! Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close to your heart. It’s a true southern delight!
Ingredients of Kentucky Butter Cake
When it comes to baking a Kentucky Butter Cake, the ingredients you use really make all the difference. This cake is all about that rich, buttery flavor that brings comfort and joy with every bite. So, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat. Spoiler alert: you might be tempted to sneak a taste of the batter, but let’s try to keep it under control, shall we?
Here’s your ingredient list for Kentucky Butter Cake:
- 1 cup butter, room temperature (no substitutes, please)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup sour milk—you can make this by adding 2 tablespoons of vinegar to a measuring cup and filling it to the one-cup line with milk)
- 3 cups unsifted all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the butter sauce:
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons hot water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Now, let’s talk a bit about those ingredients. First off, using room temperature butter is key; it helps create that light and fluffy texture that makes the cake so special.
And if you’re worried about not having buttermilk, no sweat. The vinegar trick will save the day and still give you that tangy flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Also, don’t skimp on the vanilla—it adds that warm, inviting aroma that wafts through your kitchen and beckons everyone to come and enjoy a slice.
Trust me, you’ll want to savor this cake, so gather your ingredients and get ready for some delicious baking magic.
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients for the Kentucky Butter Cake, let’s plunge into the fun part—making it. First, grab that 1 cup of room temperature butter and plop it into a large mixing bowl. You want to cream that butter until it’s light and fluffy, and trust me, this is where the magic begins.
Slowly add in the 2 cups of granulated sugar while mixing. It’s like a little dance between the butter and sugar, so don’t rush it. Once they’re well combined and fluffy, it’s time to introduce the 4 large eggs. Add them all at once and turn up the mixer to high speed. You’ll want to beat this mixture for at least 5 minutes. Yes, you read that right—5 minutes. This is key for creating that wonderful texture, so don’t skimp on time.
After your mixture is thick and creamy, add in the 1 cup of buttermilk (or your homemade sour milk) and blend thoroughly. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, now’s the time to sneak a small taste of that batter. Just a tiny spoonful, though—no one needs to know about that!
Next, grab a small bowl and combine 3 cups of unsifted all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Once that’s ready, add the dry ingredients to the batter all at once, and mix for another 10 minutes. I know it sounds like a workout for your mixer, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that lovely aroma that will have everyone in the house drooling.
While you’re waiting for the batter to come together, generously grease your 10-inch bundt pan. This is critical because nobody wants their beautiful cake to stick. Once greased, pour your thick batter into the pan and pop it into a preheated oven set at 325°F. Bake for about 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top springs back when touched lightly in the center. Just keep an eye on it, because every oven is a little different.
While the cake is baking, you can prepare the butter sauce. Combine 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of hot water, and 1/4 cup of butter in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the butter melts, but don’t let it boil. After removing it from the heat, stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Once your cake is out of the oven, let it sit on a rack for about 5 minutes. Here comes the fun part: poke deep holes all over the cake with a long skewer. Seriously, don’t be shy—these holes are what’ll let that buttery goodness soak in.
Slowly pour the warm butter sauce over the cake, letting it seep into those holes and down the sides. It might feel like you’re drowning the cake, but it’s all in the name of deliciousness. Allow the cake to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan.
If you’d like, sprinkle a little icing sugar on top for that beautiful finishing touch. And there you have it—a Kentucky Butter Cake that’s sure to be a showstopper at your next gathering, or a delightful treat just for you. Enjoy every buttery bite.
Kentucky Butter Cake Substitutions & Variations
While Kentucky Butter Cake is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
For a twist, swap buttermilk with Greek yogurt or regular milk mixed with vinegar. If you’re looking for a different flavor, add almond extract in place of some vanilla.
You can also fold in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Want a fruity touch? Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter.
And don’t forget about toppings—think caramel sauce or fresh berries instead of just icing sugar. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
What to Serve with Kentucky Butter Cake
If you’ve experimented with the delicious variations of Kentucky Butter Cake, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it to enhance the experience.
I love pairing this rich cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, add a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness.
For a touch of nostalgia, serve it with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the indulgence even more.
Enjoy these pairings for a delightful treat!
Additional Tips & Notes
When baking Kentucky Butter Cake, it’s important to pay attention to a few details that can make a big difference in the final result. Make sure your butter is at room temperature; that’s vital for achieving the right texture.
I always recommend using fresh buttermilk or sour milk for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, vinegar works too.
Don’t rush the mixing process; beating the batter thoroughly guarantees a light cake.
Finally, let the cake soak in that delicious butter sauce—don’t skimp on those holes! Trust me, it’s worth the wait for the ultimate moistness. Enjoy!