Kentucky Butter Cake

 

Kentucky Butter Cake – A Southern Classic That Melts in Your Mouth

If you’ve never tried Kentucky Butter Cake, get ready to meet your new favorite dessert. This Southern classic is rich, buttery, and downright irresistible — a moist, tender cake drenched in a sweet buttery glaze that makes every bite pure bliss.

Known for its simple ingredients and decadent flavor, Kentucky Butter Cake has been a family favorite for generations. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a comforting slice of homemade goodness, this cake delivers on all fronts.

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🍰 What Makes Kentucky Butter Cake So Special?

• Buttery and moist – thanks to a generous amount of butter both in the batter and the glaze

• Golden crust – perfectly caramelized on top for a bit of crunch

• Simple to make – no fancy ingredients or complicated steps required

• Versatile dessert – perfect with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream

• A taste of Southern hospitality — every slice feels like a warm welcome

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🛒 Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Butter Glaze:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt or tube pan.

2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.

3. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl: flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

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

7. Prepare the glaze: In a saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

8. While cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork and pour the warm glaze evenly over it. The cake will soak up the glaze, becoming moist and buttery.

9. Cool completely before slicing and serving.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy a slice as is, with a cup of coffee or tea

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

• Pair with fresh berries for a fruity twist

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days

• Refrigerate if your kitchen is warm, but bring to room temp before serving

• Freeze wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge

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📝 Final Thoughts

Kentucky Butter Cake is the perfect example of simple ingredients transformed into something spectacular. The buttery glaze and tender crumb create a luscious dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.

Whether you’re new to Southern baking or a longtime fan, this cake is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug from the South — sweet, welcoming, and unforgettable.