Kentucky Butter Cake

Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery pound cake soaked with a warm buttery glaze. The glaze seeps into the cake, making it incredibly moist with a delicate sugary crust on the outside. It’s simple to make and perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat with coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Moist and flavorful with a tender crumb.

• Easy ingredients found in any pantry.

• The buttery glaze adds sweetness and a crunchy top layer.

• Stays fresh for several days, making it great for make-ahead desserts.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

For the Glaze:

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter

• 3 tablespoons water

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

   • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

   • Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Cake Batter

   • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

   • Add vanilla extract and mix.

   • In another bowl, whisk flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.

   • Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour.

   • Mix until smooth, but do not overbeat.

3. Bake the Cake

   • Pour batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan.

   • Bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

   • Leave the cake in the pan while you make the glaze.

4. Make the Glaze

   • In a small saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and water.

   • Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Do not boil.

   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

5. Soak the Cake

   • While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the surface.

   • Slowly pour the warm glaze evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

   • Let the cake cool completely in the pan before turning it out onto a serving plate.

Tips and Variations

• For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon almond extract to the glaze.

• Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for a lighter touch.

• This cake tastes even better the next day as the glaze fully absorbs.

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Butter Cake is a classic Southern dessert that never disappoints. The buttery glaze creates a moist, rich texture with a crisp sugary crust. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser.