Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery, and moist cake that’s known for its deliciously sweet, slightly caramelized flavor. The cake itself is simple to make but is elevated by a glaze that soaks into the cake, adding even more flavor and moisture. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you want a comforting and indulgent treat!
Here’s a recipe for Kentucky Butter Cake:
Kentucky Butter Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup whole milk and 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp rum (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan, or use a non-stick Bundt pan for easier removal.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla and almond extract.
- Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Add the vegetable oil and mix again until smooth.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and firm on top.
4. Make the Butter Glaze:
- While the cake is baking, make the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, and water. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and rum (if using). Set aside.
5. Glaze the Cake:
- When the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. This allows the glaze to soak in.
- Slowly pour the warm butter glaze over the cake, making sure it soaks into the holes. Let the cake sit for about 20 minutes, allowing the glaze to fully soak in.
6. Serve:
- After the cake has cooled slightly, invert it onto a serving plate. You can garnish the top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit if desired.
- Slice and enjoy this ultra-moist, buttery cake!
Tips for Success:
- Soaking the Cake: Be sure to pour the glaze while the cake is still warm and the glaze is hot to ensure it soaks in and keeps the cake moist.
- Flavor Variations: You can switch up the extracts (like using lemon or orange) or even add a handful of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the batter for some texture.
- Storage: This cake stays moist for days, and it actually gets better after sitting for a day or two. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy!
Kentucky Butter Cake is the definition of comfort food — buttery, sweet, and incredibly moist, with that decadent glaze soaking right into every bite. Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own, this cake is sure to become a family favorite!