Kentucky butter cake is a delightful and rich Southern dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Soaked in a warm vanilla butter sauce, this cake delivers a moist, tender texture and a buttery flavor that will melt in your mouth. Whether you’re watching the Kentucky Derby or simply craving a delicious homemade cake, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this cake and how to make it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Kentucky butter cake is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cake itself is soft, moist, and buttery, while the soak of vanilla butter sauce adds depth of flavor. It’s simple to make and requires only basic ingredients, most of which are likely already in your pantry. Whether you’re hosting a Derby party or just treating yourself, this cake is bound to impress.

• Buttery flavor: The cake’s rich butter flavor creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Soft and tender texture: A cross between a yellow cake and a pound cake—moist without being too dense.

• Easy to make: With basic pantry staples, this cake is simple yet incredibly delicious.

• Perfect for any event: Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual gathering, this cake is sure to stand out.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226 g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, room temperature

• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

For the butter sauce:

• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter

• 3 tablespoons water

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture and buttermilk in alternating batches, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the cake comes out clean.

6. While the cake is baking, prepare the butter sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, water, and vanilla extract. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.

7. Once the cake is done, allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. Poke holes into the cake using a skewer.

8. While the cake is still warm, pour the butter sauce evenly over it, making sure the sauce soaks into the holes.

9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 slices

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 55-65 minutes

• Cooling time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 4 hours and 20 minutes (including cooling)

Variations

• Change the sauce: For a different twist, try adding bourbon or rum to the butter sauce instead of water, or use salted caramel for a deeper flavor.

• Different pan sizes: You can also bake the batter in a 13×9-inch pan or two 8-inch round pans, though the baking time will be slightly shorter (about 30-35 minutes).

• Add-ins: Feel free to stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts), or fresh berries to the batter for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake at room temperature, covered, for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator and bring the cake to room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: You can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in this recipe?

While you can, using unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the salt content in the cake.

2. How do I ensure the cake doesn’t stick to the bundt pan?

Be sure to thoroughly grease and flour the bundt pan. You can also use a cake release paste, which works great for bundt pans with intricate designs.

3. What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes even better the day after it’s made, as the butter sauce has time to soak in fully.

5. What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can bake this cake in a 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. The baking time will vary slightly, so check for doneness with a toothpick.

6. Can I add nuts or chocolate to the cake batter?

Yes, mix in about 1 cup of chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or walnuts for added flavor and texture.

7. How long does the cake need to cool before serving?

Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes after pouring the sauce over it, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used as a substitute, it may affect the cake’s texture and flavor. Butter is the best choice for this recipe.

9. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached.

10. Can I freeze the cake?

Yes! This cake freezes well. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Kentucky butter cake is a timeless dessert that’s both simple and indulgent. With its buttery flavor and moist texture, it’s perfect for any celebration, especially the Kentucky Derby. Whether you’re making it for a party or just treating yourself, this cake will not disappoint. Make it ahead, enjoy it at room temperature, and savor the deliciousness!