Kentucky Butter Cake
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Kentucky Butter Cake—an iconic Southern dessert guaranteed to impress. With its dense texture and sweet glaze, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to elegant dinner parties. The combination of simplicity and exquisite flavor makes it a must-try for dessert lovers. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delightful treat at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- ¼ cup milk (for glaze)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 10 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 50-60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g fat, 45g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 20g sugar. This is based on one slice of the cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Once baked, let the cake cool for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake and let it soak in before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Additionally, use margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Serving and Pairings
Kentucky Butter Cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also delightful with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds. This cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter; this can make the cake dense.
- Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
- Let the cake cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting away.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially baking powder and soda, for optimal rise.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add lemon or almond extract to the batter.
- Experiment with different glazes, such as chocolate or caramel.
- Use a stand mixer for a fluffier texture.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs
What makes Kentucky Butter Cake special?
Kentucky Butter Cake is renowned for its moist texture and rich buttery flavor, complemented by a sweet glaze that seeps into the cake, creating a delightful experience.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just glaze it right before serving for the best flavor.
What is the best way to serve Kentucky Butter Cake?
Serve it warm or at room temperature, with fresh berries or whipped cream. Pairing it with coffee enhances the flavors beautifully.
Can I use a different type of pan?
Yes, you can use a regular cake pan or loaf pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Check for doneness earlier than the recipe suggests.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results.
Conclusion
Kentucky Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing this classic Southern treat!
Kentucky Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar for glaze
- ¼ cup milk for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Once baked, let the cake cool for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake and let it soak in before serving.
