Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich and buttery classic Southern dessert known for its incredibly moist texture and decadent flavor. This pound cake is baked to golden perfection and then soaked with a luscious butter-sugar glaze while it’s still warm, infusing every bite with a sweet, buttery richness. The glaze forms a slight crust on the outside while keeping the inside soft and tender. Kentucky Butter Cake is simple to make with pantry staples and is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. It can be enjoyed on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Glaze
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Add the softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on low speed until just combined, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- While the cake is baking, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Glaze the Cake:
- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack. While the cake is still in the pan, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes all over the top.
- Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes and around the edges. Let the cake sit in the pan for at least 30 minutes to absorb the glaze.
- Serve:
- Invert the cake onto a serving plate and remove the Bundt pan. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Kentucky Butter Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that captures the essence of Southern baking with its rich butter flavor and tender crumb. Enjoy this delightful cake on its own or with your favorite toppings for a truly indulgent treat.
