
Introduction
If you love indulgent, mouthwatering desserts, then Kentucky Butter Cake will certainly delight! In this article, we’re exploring its delectable world – perfect for family reunions and celebrations alike. With its buttery flavor and tender, moist crumb – no surprise this cake has become such a beloved classic! So let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking some Southern charm!
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of making the Kentucky Butter Cake, let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- For the Butter Sauce:
- 3/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup of water
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Cake Batter
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and generously grease a bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
2. Sifting and Combining Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
3. Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Making the Butter Sauce
While the cake is baking, let’s prepare the buttery goodness that will soak into every inch of this cake.
- In a saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, water, and vanilla extract.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved.
5. Applying the Butter Sauce
- Once the cake is out of the oven, leave it in the pan and poke holes all over the surface with a skewer.
- Slowly pour the warm butter sauce over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
6. Letting it Cool
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. This gives it time to soak up all that delicious buttery goodness.
Glazing the Cake
- Carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Conclusion: A Slice of Southern Comfort
And there you have it, a luscious Kentucky Butter Cake that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds! Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as the grand finale to a special dinner, this cake is bound to become a household favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted for the sauce?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but adjust the amount of added salt in the cake batter accordingly to maintain the right balance of flavors.
2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to deepen and the cake becomes even more moist if you let it sit overnight.
3. Can I freeze leftover slices?
Yes, you can wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months.
4. Can I substitute the sour cream?
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for sour cream in this recipe, providing a similar tang and moisture.
5. How do I store the leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Remember, baking is as much about creativity as it is about following a recipe. So don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch to this delightful Kentucky Butter Cake recipe. Enjoy every bite!