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Introduction
The Kentucky Butter Cake is a quintessential Southern dessert that embodies the essence of traditional Southern baking. This cake is renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture, making it a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, and those moments when only the most comforting homemade dessert will do. The secret to its irresistible taste lies in the generous butter glaze that is poured over the cake while it’s still warm, ensuring that every bite is infused with sweet, buttery goodness.
Ingredients
To create this masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to ensure your cake releases perfectly.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the batter, making the cake light.
- Incorporate the eggs and vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its rich flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. The buttermilk adds a tangy richness to the cake and ensures a tender crumb.
- Bake the cake. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Creating the Butter Glaze:
- Combine glaze ingredients in a saucepan. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- Simmer the glaze. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. The glaze should thicken slightly and become syrupy.
Finishing Touches:
- Poke holes in the cake. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a fork to poke holes all over the top. This allows the glaze to seep into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.
- Pour the glaze over the warm cake. Slowly drizzle the hot glaze over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes and covers the surface evenly.
- Cool the cake. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period lets the glaze thoroughly soak into the cake, creating a moist and tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
The Kentucky Butter Cake is best served at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as is or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an added touch of elegance. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Butter Cake is a timeless Southern dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. By following these detailed steps and using quality ingredients, you can create a cake that not only tastes delicious but also brings a touch of Southern hospitality to your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress.
