Kentucky Butter Cake
A rich, buttery cake that pairs a tender crumb with a luscious, sweet butter sauce for a moist and flavorful dessert.
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 375kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and tender crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar Balances the butteriness.
- 1 tsp baking powder Leavening agent for rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda Additional leavening for fluffiness.
- 1 tsp salt Enhances flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness and moisture.
- 4 large eggs Provides moisture and stability.
- 1 cup buttermilk Provides tang and moisture.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract Adds warm, aromatic essence.
Butter Sauce
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the sauce.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter Rich buttery flavor.
- 3 tbsp water Helps combine the ingredients.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract Extra flavor in the sauce.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Generously grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the softened butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
Baking
- Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, and water for the butter sauce, cooking until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract.
Finishing
- Leave the cake in the bundt pan for about 10 minutes, then poke holes in the cake with a skewer.
- Pour the warm butter sauce over the cake and let it soak in for at least 30 minutes.
- Invert onto a plate for serving.
Notes
Use room-temperature ingredients for the best texture. Don’t skip the buttermilk; it's crucial for a tender crumb.