Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
There’s something irresistibly comforting about the warm, buttery goodness of a homemade cake. The first bite envelops your senses, and when it’s a Kentucky Butter Cake, it’s even more special. This delightful recipe, laden with rich flavors and soft texture, promises to be a family favorite, enhancing your dessert repertoire seamlessly. Today, I’ll guide you through creating this classic delight, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Growing up, my grandmother often made this cake for Sunday dinners. It was always the sweet conclusion to our family meals, gathering everyone around the table with shared stories and laughter. The aroma of baking would fill the house, signifying warmth and togetherness. This recipe carries the legacy of those cherished moments, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and rich flavor. The buttery glaze absorbs into the cake, offering a delicious, moist crumb with every slice. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, making it an accessible option for any occasion. Plus, it doesn’t demand excessive decorating skills to make it visually appealing—its golden hue and subtle crackle are effortlessly charming.
Ingredients Notes
To prepare this cake, you’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract among other staples. Opt for high-quality butter as it significantly impacts the flavor. For those looking for a lighter alternative, substitute a quarter portion of the flour with almond flour. The glaze is essentially made of butter and sugar, penetrating into the cake for that rich, buttery effect.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and generously grease a bundt pan. This will ensure the cake releases beautifully.
Step 2
Cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial for a tender crumb. Gradually add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 3
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Slowly incorporate the dry mix into the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk and vanilla extract until just combined.
Step 4
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by melting butter, sugar, water, and vanilla in a saucepan. As soon as the cake is out of the oven, poke holes in it and pour the glaze over, allowing it to seep through the cake.
Storage Options
Store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For extended storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in a low oven or microwave, retaining their soft texture.
Variations & Substitutions
For those following a dairy-free diet, swap the butter with a non-dairy alternative like coconut oil, and use almond milk instead of buttermilk. To elevate flavors, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or even a handful of crushed nuts to the batter for a nutty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! This cake can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, allowing the glaze time to infuse even further enhances the flavor. Simply store the cake in an airtight container until ready to serve.
What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
No worries! You can easily use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Adjust the baking time to around 40-45 minutes, but keep an eye on it as ovens may vary. The result will be just as delightful.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Ensure your baking powder is also certified gluten-free to avoid any contamination. The texture remains beautifully light and moist.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Ensuring your bundt pan is very well greased and floured (or coated with a non-stick spray) is key to avoiding stickiness. Let the cake cool slightly before attempting to remove it from the pan for best results.
Remember it later
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Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
