Kentucky Butter Cake

Indulge in the decadent allure of a Kentucky Butter Cake, a timeless dessert beloved for its soft, buttery crumb and rich, tangy buttermilk sauce. This classic recipe is the epitome of comfort food, making it the perfect choice for special occasions or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence. Every bite is a harmonious blend of tender vanilla cake soaked with luscious buttermilk glaze, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake

Here’s everything you need to create this indulgent dessert:

For the Cake

For the Buttermilk Sauce

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Cream the sugar and butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and melted butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. This creates a smooth and cohesive batter.
3. Enhance with vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract, infusing the batter with a rich aroma.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Incorporate buttermilk: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.

2. Bake the Cake

1. Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch bundt or baking pan with oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Fill the pan: Pour the prepared batter into the pan, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
3. Bake to perfection: Bake for 55-70 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. The cake is ready when the toothpick emerges clean or with a few moist crumbs.
4. Cool briefly: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the pan.

3. Make the Buttermilk Sauce

1. Melt and dissolve: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cubed butter, and water. Heat over medium, stirring continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the butter has melted.
2. Add vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.

4. Assemble the Cake

1. Release the cake: Carefully run a knife along the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. Turn it out onto a wire rack set over a piece of waxed paper to catch any drips.
2. Poke and soak: Use a skewer or fork to poke holes throughout the cake. Drizzle about ¼ cup of the buttermilk sauce over the surface, ensuring it seeps into the holes for optimal moisture and flavor.
3. Rest and absorb: Let the cake stand for 15-20 minutes to fully absorb the sauce.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the cake and serve it warm or at room temperature.
2. Drizzle additional buttermilk sauce over each slice for an extra decadent treat.
3. For added flair, pair with toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.