Kentucky Butter Cake

There’s something undeniably charming about the South, and it extends into its culinary traditions. Among the region’s numerous contributions to American cuisine, the Kentucky Butter Cake stands out as a beacon of simplicity and flavor. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for this traditional treat that promises to soothe your soul with every buttery bite.

Ingredients

To begin, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Butter Glaze:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

Follow these steps to create your own delicious Kentucky Butter Cake:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a bundt pan to ensure your cake releases perfectly.

2. Sift Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:

Using a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, making the cake light.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra hint of flavor.

5. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients:

Gradually add your sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix—stop when just combined.

6. Pour into Bundt Pan:

Transfer the batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s even to prevent uneven baking.

7. Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it as it nears completion.

8. Prepare Butter Glaze:

While the cake bakes, prepare the butter glaze. In a saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This glaze will infuse the cake with moisture and flavor.

9. Glaze the Warm Cake:

After removing the cake from the oven, while it’s still warm, poke holes throughout it using a skewer or fork. Pour the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and saturate the cake.

10. Cool and Serve:

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience will be rewarded with a cake that’s easy to slice and serve.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this delightful cake has approximately 580 kcal. The recipe serves about 12, making it perfect for gatherings or a family dessert.

Conclusion

Kentucky Butter Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Southern hospitality and warmth. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple family meal, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!