Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Kentucky butter cake! This cake is the epitome of moist, buttery goodness that just melts in your mouth. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug from a loved one. I remember the first time I tried it, and I was instantly hooked. The rich flavor is perfectly complemented by a sweet glaze that adds just the right amount of decadence. It’s no wonder this cake is a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks! Everyone just loves it, and it disappears faster than you can say “Kentucky butter cake.” Trust me, once you bake this beauty, you’ll be the star of any dessert table. Let’s dive into the delightful world of this classic American dessert!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup water (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
How to Prepare Kentucky Butter Cake
Prepping the Oven and Bundt Pan
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this step is crucial for achieving that perfect bake! While that’s warming up, grab your bundt pan and give it a good greasing and flouring. This is super important to ensure your cake slides out effortlessly once it’s baked. I usually use a little unsalted butter and a dusting of flour—works like a charm!
Mixing the Batter
Now, let’s make that dreamy batter! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. It’s so satisfying to watch it transform! Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t rush this part; it really helps with the texture. Then, stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined. You’ll love that buttery aroma filling your kitchen!
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is key to ensuring all those leavening agents are evenly distributed. Once that’s done, gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—don’t overdo it! You want a tender cake, not a rubbery one.
Baking the Cake
Now it’s time to pour that luscious batter into your prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula if you want it to look extra nice. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Ah, the smell of baking cake is pure bliss!
Preparing the Glaze
While your cake is baking, let’s whip up that sweet glaze! In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. This shouldn’t take long at all. Keep it warm until your cake is out of the oven—it’s going to soak right in!
Finishing Touches
Once your cake is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Now comes the fun part—drizzle that warm glaze over the cake while it’s still warm. It’s going to soak in and make every bite irresistible! If you want to take it up a notch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or some fresh fruit on the side. Enjoy every last crumb!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! Now, keep in mind these values are an estimate, but they give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in with each slice of this delightful Kentucky butter cake. Here’s the breakdown:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g
So there you have it! This cake is certainly a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. It’s totally worth every buttery bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different pan for Kentucky butter cake?
Absolutely! While a bundt pan gives it that classic shape, you can use a 9×13-inch baking dish if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary a bit.
What can I serve with Kentucky butter cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but if you want to elevate it, I recommend serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or some fresh berries. The tartness of the fruit perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake!
How long does Kentucky butter cake last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last for about 3-4 days at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week!
Can I freeze Kentucky butter cake?
Yes, you can! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It should keep well for about 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before enjoying it again.
What makes this cake so buttery?
The key to its rich flavor is the generous amount of unsalted butter used in the recipe. It’s what gives Kentucky butter cake its signature moist texture and delightful taste that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly moist and rich, with a buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- The sweet glaze adds a delightful finishing touch, making each bite a heavenly experience.
- It’s easy to make, with straightforward steps that even beginners can follow.
- This cake is perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in!
- It keeps well, so you can enjoy leftovers (if there are any!) for several days.
- It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or fresh fruit, adding versatility to your dessert table.
- Everyone loves it—trust me, it’ll be a hit with family and friends!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Kentucky butter cake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything mix together smoothly and gives you that lovely, airy texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and we want it to be tender and moist!
- Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature. This will help your cake bake evenly.
- Let it cool briefly: After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove without breaking.
- Drizzle the glaze while warm: For maximum flavor, drizzle the glaze over the cake while it’s still warm. This allows the glaze to soak in, making each bite even more delicious!
- Be patient for the best flavor: If you can, let the cake sit for a day before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even more scrumptious.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to creating a Kentucky butter cake that’ll wow everyone! Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve got this delicious Kentucky butter cake ready to enjoy, let’s talk about how to store those precious leftovers—if there are any! First off, make sure to let the cake cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent any moisture build-up that could make it soggy.
To store, simply wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to extend its life, you can pop it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, the flavors actually improve after a day or two, so don’t hesitate to let it sit a bit!
If you find yourself with more cake than you can eat, you can also freeze it. Slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It should stay good in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, just thaw the slices in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat—just enjoy it cold or let it come to room temperature for a delightful treat!
Print
Kentucky butter cake: 7 Secrets to Perfect Moistness
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Kentucky butter cake is a rich, moist dessert that features a buttery flavor with a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup water (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by combining sugar, water, and vanilla in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves.
- Once the cake is done, let it cool for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Can be served with whipped cream or fruit.
- Best if allowed to sit for a day for flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: kentucky butter cake, dessert, cake, buttery cake
