If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a cake that combines a tender crumb with rich buttery sweetness and a luscious glaze that practically melts in your mouth, this Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe is going to become your new obsession. This classic Southern dessert is beloved for its moist texture and that irresistible buttery glaze which seeps deep into the cake, making every forkful a heavenly experience. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake’s warm vanilla notes and old-fashioned charm never fail to impress. Get ready to fall head over heels for this Southern staple that feels like a big, warm hug in dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, the magic behind the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe comes from a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that golden color we all crave.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup softened): The heart of this cake’s buttery goodness, providing richness and moisture.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Adds sweetness and helps achieve the cake’s tender crumb texture.
- Large eggs (4): Bind the ingredients together and give the cake structure and lift.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses the cake with warm, inviting flavor.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The main structure builder for the cake’s light and soft texture.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise beautifully in the oven.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the buttermilk to leaven and tenderize the cake.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): Brings moisture and a subtle tang, making the cake delectably tender.
- For the Butter Glaze: Granulated sugar (3/4 cup), unsalted butter (1/3 cup), water (3 tablespoons), and vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) to create that signature glossy, buttery finish.
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and thoroughly greasing and flouring a 10-inch bundt pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will release perfectly after baking, preserving those beautiful ridges.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes and is the secret to the cake’s tender yet rich crumb, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which brings that classic warm aroma everyone adores in this Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients to maintain the perfect texture, mixing just until everything is combined—overmixing can make the cake tough.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The slower lower temperature ensures a moist cake and that gorgeous golden crust.
Step 6: Prepare the Butter Glaze
While the cake bakes, make the glaze by warming sugar, butter, and water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, but don’t let it boil. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for that rich finishing touch.
Step 7: Glaze the Cake
Once out of the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then poke holes all over the cake using a skewer or fork—this is essential for the glaze to soak deeply into every bit of the cake. Slowly drizzle the glaze all over, allowing it to absorb gradually. Let the cake cool completely before turning it out onto a plate.
How to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty touch without overpowering that buttery glaze. For a more decadent presentation, try serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a few fresh berries to add a burst of color and fresh flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with classic Southern staples like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee or tea. A crisp green salad with citrus dressing also balances out the sweetness if you’re serving it as part of a larger meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fancy, slice the cake into thick wedges and serve it layered with fresh fruit compote or drizzled with caramel sauce. You can even use it as a base for a trifle or turn it into mini parfaits for an elegant dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe is that it actually tastes better the next day after the glaze has had time to fully soak in. Store your leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 4 days, keeping it tightly wrapped to maintain moisture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen, it will keep nicely for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving for best results.
Reheating
To revive the warmth and softness of the cake, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop slices in a low-temperature oven until just warmed through. Avoid over-heating to keep the glaze from becoming too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While you can substitute regular milk mixed with a little lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, the true tang and tender crumb of the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe come from real buttermilk. It’s worth seeking out for the authentic texture and flavor.
What kind of pan is best for this recipe?
A 10-inch bundt pan is ideal as it gives the cake its traditional shape and allows the glaze to soak evenly. You can also try a tube pan, but make sure it’s well-greased for easy release.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary since the structure of the cake depends heavily on gluten. Adding a bit of xanthan gum can help mimic that texture.
Why do we poke holes in the cake before glazing?
Poking holes allows the butter glaze to seep deep into the cake, making it moist and intensely flavorful throughout rather than just on the surface. It’s a crucial step to achieve that classic Kentucky Butter Cake experience.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based buttermilk alternative like almond milk with lemon juice. Keep in mind this may change the flavor and texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about this Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe that keeps people coming back for more. It’s the kind of cake that brings a smile with each bite and a warmth to any gathering. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is approachable, comforting, and sure to become a cherished favorite. Don’t hesitate to whip one up and share the joy of this Southern classic with those you love!
Print
Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Kentucky Butter Cake is a classic Southern dessert known for its rich, moist texture and buttery vanilla glaze. This old-fashioned buttermilk cake is baked to golden perfection in a bundt pan and topped with a luscious butter glaze that soaks deep into the cake, making each slice incredibly tender and flavorful. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent everyday treat.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
Butter Glaze Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and 2 cups sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time while beating well after each addition. Then stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for even distribution.
- Alternate Dry Ingredients with Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Butter Glaze: While the cake bakes, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 1/3 cup unsalted butter, and 3 tablespoons water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Avoid boiling. Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
- Apply Glaze to Cake: After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the warm cake. Slowly pour the prepared glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak deeply.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to let the glaze absorb fully before inverting onto a serving plate. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Notes
- The flavor and moisture improve the next day as the glaze fully absorbs into the cake.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 4 days for best freshness.
- For a decorative finish, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.
