Name: Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-491908H5M
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon melted butter (for greasing pan); 1 tablespoon unbleached all-purpose flour (for dusting pan); 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon fine salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups white sugar; 4 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 cup buttermilk (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3/4 cup white sugar; 1/3 cup unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons water; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Homemade whipped cream

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The Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe is a southern classic that brings together the perfect harmony of moist, buttery cake and a luscious glaze that soaks into every tender crumb. This cake is a true showstopper with its golden-brown exterior and rich buttery flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet impressively decadent, making it the perfect dessert to cozy up with family or wow guests at your next gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or giving it a try for the first time, this Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe is sure to become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of nine ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface with a textured white cloth on the left side. At the top left, there is a clear glass bowl holding two rectangular sticks of yellow butter. Next to it on the right, a medium white bowl is filled with white flour, with a rough texture visible. Below the butter, a small white bowl containing a pinch of pink salt sits next to another small white bowl filled with a white powder, likely baking powder. To the right of these, there is a clear glass measuring cup filled with creamy white milk. At the bottom left, a white fluted bowl holds four brown eggs. Below and slightly to the right of the eggs, a round bowl with a scalloped edge contains white granulated sugar. A small glass measuring cup holding clear liquid is next to the sugar bowl. On the bottom right, a white ceramic saucepan with a wooden handle sits on a round woven rattan coaster, filled with golden-yellow melted butter or oil. The setup is clean and bright, highlighting each ingredient clearly photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple staples found in most kitchens, but each one plays an essential role in creating the magic of the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe. From the fluffy texture built by the flour and leavening agents to the rich flavor from butter and buttermilk, every ingredient contributes to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

Melted butter (for greasing pan): Ensures the cake releases smoothly from the bundt pan with a subtle buttery layer.

Unbleached all-purpose flour (for dusting pan): Helps prevent sticking while keeping the outside crust beautifully tender.
All-purpose flour (3 cups): The base structure to give this cake a sturdy but tender crumb.
Fine salt (1 teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the buttery sweetness.

Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle rise for a light and fluffy texture.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with buttermilk to activate leavening and add softness.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives richness and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.

White sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering.
Large eggs (4, at room temperature): Bind ingredients while adding moisture and help with leavening.
Buttermilk (1 cup, at room temperature): Adds tanginess and tender crumb due to acidity.

Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses warmth and depth of flavor throughout the cake.
White sugar (3/4 cup for glaze): Sweetens the buttery glaze for that signature shiny finish.
Unsalted butter (1/3 cup for glaze): Melts into the glaze, enhancing richness and moistness.

Water (3 tablespoons for glaze): Thins the glaze just enough to seep into the cake’s crevices.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons for glaze): Adds aromatic sweetness that complements the cake beautifully.
Homemade whipped cream (optional for serving): A fluffy, creamy topping that adds a fresh contrast.

How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe

A close-up top view of a black Bundt cake pan dusted with flour, filled with smooth, light yellow cake batter. The batter layer is thick and even, with soft swirls and folds visible on the surface. The pan has detailed scalloped edges and a hollow center tube. The background is a white marbled texture, and a beige textured cloth is partially visible on the left side. In the upper right corner, a glass bowl with some yellow residue is slightly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prep Your Bundt Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325℉ or 160℃ to ensure even baking. Brush melted butter evenly inside a 12-cup bundt pan, taking care to avoid drips or pools that could cause uneven browning. Dust the pan with a tablespoon of flour, turning and tapping to coat every nook, then discard any excess. This simple yet crucial step guarantees your cake will release perfectly after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. These dry components lay the foundation for that tender crumb and balanced rise that defines the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy, which generally takes about 3 minutes. This process incorporates air and sets up the cake’s delicate texture. The result should be pale and voluminous, signaling that you’re one step closer to deliciousness.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Buttermilk, and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl often. The batter might look curdled or lumpy now, but hang in there; this is completely normal and will blend smoothly after adding the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low, gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Make sure to scrape down the sides between additions to keep everything well combined. Once just combined, stop mixing — overmixing can make the cake tough. Transfer the batter to your prepared bundt pan, then gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles and settle the batter evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the bundt pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is done when a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. The slow, lower heat baking ensures an even crumb and a golden crust without drying out the cake.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is in its final minutes of baking, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 1/3 cup butter, water, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan. Heat gently on low, stirring until the sugar dissolves, but do not let it boil. This luscious glaze is what gives the Kentucky Butter Cake its signature moistness and glossy finish.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is out of the oven, carefully poke holes all over the top using a skewer. Spoon about one-third of the warm glaze over the warm cake, making sure it seeps deeply into the holes. Let the cake cool 15-20 minutes before inverting it onto a plate or cake stand. Reheat the remaining glaze if necessary and brush it over the entire cake for two beautiful coats.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve slices with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a spoonful of the reserved warm glaze. The warmth of the cake combined with the rich glaze and airy whipped cream creates a mind-blowing combination you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a snowy, elegant touch. For extra indulgence, top slices with fresh berries or a spoonful of homemade whipped cream, which complements the buttery sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Enjoy this cake alongside a cup of strong coffee or a glass of milk. For brunch or special occasions, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit salad creates a lovely balance with the cake’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe as a layered dessert: cut the cake into squares and layer with whipped cream and berries in a glass trifle dish. Another fun presentation is mini bundt cakes for individual servings, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The glaze helps keep the cake moist, so it stays delicious if eaten within this time frame.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap cakes or slices individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and refresh with a quick glaze brush if desired.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven feeling. For a crispier exterior, heat briefly in a 325℉ oven for 5-7 minutes. Add a little extra glaze or whipped cream after reheating for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, using true buttermilk delivers the best texture and tang that defines the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe.

What size bundt pan works best?

A 12-cup bundt pan is ideal to achieve the classic shape and baking time for this recipe. Using a smaller or larger pan will affect baking times and cake height, so adjustments are needed if you don’t have this size.

Is it necessary to glaze the cake twice?

Applying two coats of glaze ensures the cake is moist inside and beautifully shiny on the outside, creating a signature buttery crust that makes Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe so irresistible.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind the texture might vary slightly. Choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results in maintaining structure.

How long does this cake keep fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe stays fresh for 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigeration or freezing are the best options to maintain its moistness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a delightful, homey dessert that’s bursting with buttery richness and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, the Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe is your new go-to. This cake is the perfect way to add a little southern charm to your baking repertoire, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable cake experience!