Kentucky Butter Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Kentucky Butter Cake is a delicious dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its rich buttery flavor and a delightful glaze, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat. This recipe is simple to follow, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and experienced ones. The cake is moist and tender, and the glaze adds an irresistible sweetness that makes each bite memorable.

How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter
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 (water can be substituted)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt cake pan or spray it with nonstick baking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream the butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.
In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, mix the milk and vinegar together to create buttermilk.
Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, stirring just until incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla.
Alternate adding the buttermilk mixture and the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined. Be sure to scrape down the bowl and beater as needed.
Spoon the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
When the cake is done, remove it from the oven but do not take it out of the pan yet.
In the last few minutes of baking, combine the 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of butter, and brandy in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Reserve ⅓ cup of this butter glaze.
Poke holes in the baked cake using the end of a chopstick or a similar tool, being careful not to go all the way through to the bottom.
Slowly and carefully pour the butter glaze over the holes in the cake.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 30 minutes on a wire cooling rack. After that, invert it onto a plate. Brush the remaining glaze over the top of the cake.

How to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake

Kentucky Butter Cake can be served warm or at room temperature. You can slice it up and enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries can also add a nice touch as a side.

How to Store Kentucky Butter Cake

To store Kentucky Butter Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it well and storing it in the freezer for up to three months.

Tips to Make Kentucky Butter Cake

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you begin for the best mixing results.
Don’t skip the step of poking holes in the cake; this allows the glaze to soak in and make the cake even more flavorful.
If you prefer a different flavor in the glaze, you can try using other liquors or even flavored extracts like almond extract.

Variation

You can add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the batter for added texture. Another variation is to incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pan instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes, you can use a regular cake pan, but the baking time may vary. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

2. What can I use instead of brandy in the glaze?
You can substitute water for brandy, or try using apple juice or another fruit juice for a different flavor.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake keeps well and is perfect for making in advance. Just store it in an airtight container when cooled.