Delicious Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe with Glaze

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Kentucky Butter Cake is a beloved classic, renowned for its ultra-moist texture and tender crumb. This cake features a warm buttery glaze that soaks into every bite, making it a favorite for Sunday dinners, potlucks, and special occasions. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake truly gets better overnight, enhancing its rich flavors and delightful moisture.

Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Butter Cake

There are countless reasons to adore this Kentucky Butter Cake. First, its moist texture is guaranteed to please any palate. Second, the buttery glaze infuses it with a rich flavor that is hard to resist. Third, it’s easy to make, ensuring even novice bakers can create a masterpiece. Fourth, it serves well for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations. Fifth, leftovers (if any!) taste even better the next day. Lastly, it embodies the comforting essence of traditional Southern desserts, making it a true classic.

Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake

Gather these items:

1 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups Granulated sugar
4 large Eggs (room temperature)
3 cups All-purpose flour
1 cup Buttermilk (room temperature)
2 tsp Vanilla extract
1 tsp Baking powder
½ tsp Salt
½ cup Butter
1 cup Granulated sugar
¼ cup Water
1 tbsp Vanilla extract (Added off heat)

How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Generously butter and flour a 10-cup bundt pan. Preheat oven to 325°F. Allow butter, eggs, and buttermilk to come to room temperature for a smooth batter.
Step 2: Beat softened butter and sugar on medium speed for 4–5 minutes until pale, light, and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, fully beating after each.
Step 3: Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk, starting and ending with flour. Mix on low only until just combined. Stir in vanilla.
Step 4: Pour batter into prepared bundt pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. Prepare glaze while the cake bakes.
Step 5: Melt butter in a saucepan. Add sugar and water and heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Step 6: While the cake is still warm in the pan, poke holes throughout using a wooden skewer. Pour half the warm glaze over the cake. Let absorb for 5 minutes, then pour the remaining glaze. Cool for 30 minutes before inverting.

Delicious Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe with Glaze - Kentucky Butter Cake - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Kentucky Butter Cake

Keep these in mind:

This cake gets better overnight, so consider making it a day ahead of your gathering.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
It’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings, as it serves a large number of guests.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.

Best Ways to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake

This cake shines when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful twist, consider pairing it with fresh berries or a fruit compote to enhance its flavor. You can also try it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Kentucky Butter Cake

To store, simply wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for several days. If you want to reheat it, microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until just warmed through. Meal prep is easy with this cake, as it can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Butter Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Kentucky Butter Cake?

The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and the technique. Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture. Also, don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for that perfect moist crumb.

Can I make Kentucky Butter Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Kentucky Butter Cake?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your ingredients are measured accurately and all at room temperature. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dryness; check for doneness with a toothpick.

Variations of Kentucky Butter Cake You Can Try

For a delightful twist, consider making a Kentucky Butter Pound Cake by adding a bit more butter for richness. You can also try infusing the glaze with lemon or almond extract for a different flavor profile. Another variation is to add chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent dessert. These variations can cater to various dietary preferences while still celebrating the essence of this classic Southern cake.

Delicious Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe with Glaze - Kentucky Butter Cake - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in other sweet treats, you might enjoy Salted Caramel Cookies or Caramel Apple Bread. Additionally, learn more about the history of Southern desserts here.