Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich and moist dessert that’s a staple in the Southern United States. This golden, buttery pound cake is known for its dense yet tender crumb, and it’s a treat that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
Butter Sauce:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tablespoons bourbon or rum
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and place on a wire rack (keep the cake in the pan).
4. Prepare the Butter Sauce:
- While the cake is baking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup sugar, 1/3 cup butter, and 3 tablespoons water.
- Cook over medium heat until fully melted and combined, but do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Add bourbon or rum if desired.
5. Finish the Cake:
- Poke holes all over the warm cake using a skewer or fork.
- Slowly pour the butter sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- The cake can be stored at room temperature for several days, becoming more flavorful as it sits.
Enjoy your homemade Kentucky Butter Cake, a rich, buttery treat perfect for any special occasion or just a cozy night in!
