Kentucky Butter Cake is a beloved Southern classic that embodies comfort and indulgence. With its rich flavor and tender crumb, this cake has earned its place in many family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday feasts. Originating from the heart of Kentucky, this cake is famous not just for its delectably buttery texture but also for the sweet glaze that seeps into it, making every bite a moist and flavorful experience. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself wanting to share it with friends and family—there’s something truly special about a homemade cake that fills the air with warmth and nostalgia.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are plenty of reasons to fall for Kentucky Butter Cake. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. With simple ingredients typically found in your pantry and a straightforward mixing process, this recipe is both budget-friendly and time-efficient.

Imagine serving this beautifully glazed cake at your next brunch or holiday gathering. Its rich flavors and lovely presentation will have everyone reaching for a second slice. Whether you’re looking to impress your family, celebrate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself, this cake hits all the right notes. Here’s what a satisfied baker had to say about it:

"I made this for my daughter’s birthday, and it was a standout! Everyone asked for seconds. I love how it brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen."

Preparing Kentucky Butter Cake

To make this Kentucky Butter Cake, you’ll be blending rich flavors and moist textures. The process is straightforward, so you’ll have a delightful cake on your table in no time. Overall, expect to whisk, mix, bake, and pour for a delicious compilation of buttery goodness.

What you’ll need

Gather these ingredients before you begin. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon white vinegar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar (for glaze)
½ cup unsalted butter (for glaze)
3 tablespoons brandy (or water)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Note: Feel free to adjust the brandy in the glaze; using water works perfectly if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt cake pan or spray it with nonstick baking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes using a stand mixer or hand mixer.
In a separate small bowl, combine the milk and white vinegar to create buttermilk.
Add the eggs one by one to the butter-sugar mixture, only mixing until each egg is incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the buttermilk mixture and dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven but leave it in the pan.
While the cake bakes, create the glaze. Combine sugar, butter, and brandy in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves. Do not allow it to boil. Once dissolved, remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Reserve 1/3 cup of the glaze for later.
Once the cake has cooled for about 30 minutes, poke holes with a chopstick or similar object. Pour the butter glaze over the cake slowly, allowing it to soak in.
Finally, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before inverting it. Brush the reserved glaze over the top of the cooled cake.

Best ways to enjoy it

Kentucky Butter Cake is delicious on its own, but don’t shy away from adding some creative flair! Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant touch. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. Fresh berries make wonderful accompaniments and elevate the aesthetic even more.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To preserve your Kentucky Butter Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. For longer storage, wrap the cake well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to defrost it in the fridge overnight before serving to bring back its original texture and flavor.

Pro chef tips

Room temperature ingredients: For the best results, ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Don’t overmix: Once you combine dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check your oven: Ovens can vary quite a bit in temperature—use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you can try:

Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the buttery flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for added decadence.
Nuts or Dried Fruits: Fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit for texture and additional flavor.

Your questions answered

Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake stores well for several days, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.

Q: What can I substitute for brandy?
You can easily substitute water or orange juice in the glaze for a non-alcoholic version.

Q: How do I know when my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is done.

With its luscious buttery flavor and moist, tender crumb, Kentucky Butter Cake is a true delight that’s simple enough for everyday baking, yet special enough for celebrations. Try it out, and you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic!