This Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake Will Become Your New Favorite Dessert

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan or divide it evenly between the round cake pans.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes (30-35 minutes for round pans) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. Melt Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely melted and turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Add Butter: Once melted, carefully add the butter. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
3. Stir in Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and add sea salt to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Drizzle the Sauce: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle a generous amount of the salted caramel sauce over the top. If you have extra, serve it on the side for those who want an extra drizzle.
2. Garnish (Optional): For an elegant touch, sprinkle additional sea salt over the caramel drizzle and add some chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allowing the cake to cool properly before drizzling with caramel is essential to prevent the sauce from soaking in completely.
• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can refrigerate it for longer freshness, but the texture may change slightly.
• Make Ahead: Both the cake and the salted caramel sauce can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for entertaining.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors that will satisfy any sweet craving. With its moist texture, sweet and salty topping, and simple preparation, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this dessert is bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and indulge in the deliciousness of this unforgettable cake!