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Delicious slice of Kentucky Butter Cake topped with a buttery glaze
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Kentucky Butter Cake

A wonderfully moist and buttery cake soaked in a luscious buttery sauce, perfect for impressing family and friends.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Keyword: buttery cake, cake recipe, Kentucky Butter Cake, moist cake, Southern Dessert
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your cake, ensuring a lovely texture.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Sweetness personified, perfect for balancing flavors.
  • 1 tsp baking powder This provides the lift for that perfect rise.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Enhances the cake's lightness and texture.
  • 1 tsp salt A contrast that elevates sweetness.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened For rich creaminess and flavor.
  • 4 large eggs Binding the ingredients while adding moisture.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Adds tenderness and a delightful tanginess.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract Infusing sweetness and warmth.

For the Butter Sauce

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar A sweet glaze to soak into the cake.
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter Enhancing the sauce's richness.
  • 3 tbsp water Balances the thickness of the sauce.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract Echoes the vanilla from the cake batter.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Generously grease and flour a bundt pan, ensuring easy release after baking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
  • Add butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Baking

  • Carefully pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Sauce Preparation

  • While your cake is baking, prepare the butter sauce. In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and water. Heat over medium until the mixture is melted and bubbling. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Finishing Touches

  • When the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven, but keep it in the pan. Use a skewer to poke holes throughout the top of the cake, creating pathways for the heavenly sauce.
  • Slowly pour the warm butter sauce over the cake, allowing it to seep in.
  • Let the cake soak for at least 30 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.

Notes

For an extra flavor burst, consider incorporating lemon zest or almond extract into your batter. You can also garnished with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.