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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan or tube pan to ensure easy release.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Prepare the Glaze:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, and water. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
8. Glaze the Cake:
- Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet. While the cake is still warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to soak in.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing. The glaze will create a lovely, sweet crust on top of the cake.
Tips for the Perfect Kentucky Butter Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Store Properly: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Kentucky Butter Cake can be enjoyed on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate it:
- Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lovely lightness to the rich cake.
- Pair with Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a fresh contrast to the buttery cake.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla or butter pecan ice cream makes a delightful pairing, turning dessert into a decadent treat.
Conclusion
Kentucky Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the warmth and comfort of Southern baking. Its buttery flavor, moist texture, and simple preparation make it a favorite among many. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. So gather your ingredients and bake this classic Southern treat—you won’t be disappointed!