Kentucky Butter Cake

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan or a tube pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Make the Cake Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract until just combined.

3. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Prepare the Butter Sauce:

• While the cake is baking, prepare the butter sauce by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Glaze the Cake:

• Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork, then pour the butter sauce evenly over the cake. Allow the cake to absorb the glaze as it cools completely.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice the cake and serve it on its own or with your favorite accompaniments. The buttery glaze adds a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Best Results

• Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before glazing ensures that the sauce seeps into the cake without sliding off.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
• Add Your Twist: Feel free to customize the cake by adding a touch of lemon zest to the batter or incorporating nuts for added texture.

Conclusion

Kentucky Butter Cake is a true Southern delight that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible flavor, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat with coffee, this classic recipe is perfect for creating memories with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake a slice of Southern goodness that everyone will adore!