Kentucky Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that embodies the flavors and warmth of the American South. Often known for its buttery texture and rich sweetness, this cake is a favorite among both experienced bakers and novices alike.
Why We Love This Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
The love for Kentucky Butter Cake is palpable, and it stems from several key factors. Its moist and dense texture is complemented by a rich, buttery flavor that simply melts in your mouth. The cake’s simplicity in preparation allows anyone, regardless of baking experience, to create this impressive dessert.
Moreover, it’s versatile. Whether you enjoy it plain, with whipped cream, or paired with fresh berries, Kentucky Butter Cake adapts to your preferences effortlessly. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking is an irresistible bonus, making the preparation process feel like an event in itself.
Another reason to adore this cake is its ability to evoke nostalgia. Many people have memories of family gatherings where this cake was the centerpiece, bringing everyone together over shared enjoyment. By baking this cake, you’re not just making a dessert; you’re creating connections and memories.
Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake
To create your Kentucky Butter Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar (plus an additional 3/4 cup for glaze)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon (7g) salt
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (for glaze)
- 3 tablespoons water (for glaze)
- 2 teaspoons salt (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons bourbon (or replace with water)
These simple yet wholesome ingredients come together to create a cake that’s rich in flavor and deeply satisfying.
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake
To begin your journey toward baking the perfect Kentucky Butter Cake, follow these easy steps:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly throughout.
Prepare the Pan: Generously grease a tube or bundt pan with cooking spray. This step is crucial as it prevents the cake from sticking once baked.
Cream the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar at high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 5 minutes.
Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs integrate smoothly into the mixture.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the creamed mixture, combining until just incorporated.
Add Buttermilk and Vanilla: Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract gently until just blended. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep the cake tender.
Pour the Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles that may have formed.
Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Glaze: While the cake bakes, prepare the bourbon glaze. In a saucepan, combine the 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons of water, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Melt over low heat, stirring until fully combined. Once melted, mix in the bourbon and set aside.
Glaze the Cake: After the cake is baked, let it cool for about 15-20 minutes. Carefully poke holes in the top of the cake using a skewer or toothpick, then brush it generously with the glaze. This allows the glaze to seep into the cake.
Invert and Cool: Invert the cake onto a serving plate, brushing the outside with any remaining glaze. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Your Kentucky Butter Cake is now ready to be enjoyed! Its tender crumb and sweet glaze will surely delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake
Serving your Kentucky Butter Cake can be as simple or as elaborate as you desire. The cake shines beautifully on its own thanks to its moist interior and rich flavor. Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve it:
Plain: Enjoy a slice of Kentucky Butter Cake on its own. The buttery flavor is captivating, making it an excellent option for when you crave something comforting.
With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. The lightness of whipped cream balances the richness of the cake, making for a delightful pairing.
With Berries: Fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can be served alongside or on top of each slice. The tartness of the berries enhances the sweetness of the cake.
As a Dessert Option: Serve it as a dessert at dinner parties or gatherings. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, adding a touch of Southern hospitality to any occasion.
Regardless of how you choose to serve your Kentucky Butter Cake, it’s sure to impress guests and satisfy cravings. Its versatile nature means you can adapt it to suit any event or mood.
Expert Tips for Kentucky Butter Cake
To ensure your Kentucky Butter Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider the following expert tips:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This allows for better mixing and an even texture.
Sift Your Flour: Sifting the flour helps eliminate lumps and aerates the flour, resulting in a lighter cake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated to prevent developing too much gluten, which can lead to a dense cake.
Oven Thermometer: Consider using an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An unexpected variance can affect baking times.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool completely after glazing before slicing. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and allows for clean slices.
By following these expert tips, you’ll enhance your baking skills and serve up a Kentucky Butter Cake that’s a feast for the senses.
How to Store Kentucky Butter Cake
Storing your Kentucky Butter Cake properly will help preserve its flavor and texture. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
At Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within a few days, store it in a cool, dry place covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moisture.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can keep the cake in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: If you have leftover cake that you won’t eat soon, consider freezing it. Slice the cake and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat it gently in the microwave.
With proper storage, your Kentucky Butter Cake will remain delicious for days to come!
Variations of Kentucky Butter Cake
While the traditional Kentucky Butter Cake is delightful as is, you can experiment with various flavors and additions. Here are some popular variations to try:
Chocolate Variant: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolate version. You can adjust the amount of flour accordingly to ensure the correct consistency.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture and an extra layer of flavor.
Citrus Twist: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the buttery sweetness.
Fruit Addition: Consider adding diced fruit like apples or peaches to the batter. This brings moistness to the cake while adding a fruity flair.
Spiced Version: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist that can be perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
These variations can bring a new dimension to the classic Kentucky Butter Cake, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kentucky Butter Cake?
Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery cake known for its moist texture and sweet glaze. Originating from Kentucky, it’s a beloved Southern dessert that is easy to make and delightful to eat.
How do I make my Kentucky Butter Cake moist?
To achieve a moist cake, use high-quality butter, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature, and avoid overbaking. The glaze added after baking also helps retain moisture.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with cake flour for an even lighter texture. Just remember to adjust the measurements accordingly.
How do I store leftover Kentucky Butter Cake?
Store any leftover cake at room temperature covered with plastic wrap or in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it later. You can also freeze slices to enjoy at a later date.
Kentucky Butter Cake
Equipment
- 9-inch Tube or Bundt Pan
- Mixing Bowls:
- Stand Mixer
Ingredients
- 12 oz. unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar (400g) plus an additional 3/4 cup for glaze
- 4 oz. cream cheese softened
- 5 large eggs at room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (360g)
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (240ml), at room temperature
- 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (for glaze)
- 3 Tbsp. water (for glaze)
- 2 tsp. salt (for glaze)
- 1-2 Tbsp. bourbon (or replace with water)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and grease a tube or bundt pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by combining sugar, butter, water, and salt in a saucepan. Heat until melted and combined, then stir in bourbon.
- Once the cake is baked, let it cool for 15-20 minutes. Poke holes in the top and brush generously with the glaze.
- Invert the cake onto a serving plate, brush the outside with remaining glaze, and allow to cool completely before serving.
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