There’s something magical about a warm slice of Kentucky butter cake. Maybe it’s the way the buttery glaze soaks into every crevice of the soft, vanilla-rich crumb. Or maybe it’s the sweet, crisp crust that forms as it cools. Either way, this Kentucky butter cake recipe is pure comfort in dessert form.
I first tried Kentucky butter cake at a small-town potluck in the heart of Tennessee. A quiet older woman handed me a slice and whispered, “You’ll want seconds.” She was right. The cake was rich, dense, and unapologetically buttery, yet not heavy. Since then, this recipe has become a family tradition in my own kitchen.
More than just a pound cake, Kentucky butter cake is soaked in a warm vanilla-butter glaze that gives it moisture and an unforgettable flavor. It’s ideal for holidays, gifting, or whenever you’re craving a true Southern classic.
Table of contents
Why This Butter Cake Is a Southern Classic
What makes this Kentucky butter cake so beloved? It’s the combination of simplicity and indulgence. There’s no frosting or complicated steps, just a perfectly balanced batter and a buttery glaze that transforms every bite.
Why you’ll love it:
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to buttermilk and the signature glaze, the texture stays soft for days.
- Easy to Make: No special equipment or techniques needed.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Actually tastes better the next day as the glaze sets in.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s universally loved by kids and adults alike.
Customization Ideas:
- Swap vanilla for almond extract in the glaze for a twist.
- Add citrus zest to the batter for brightness.
- Use mini Bundt pans for individual portions (great for gifting).
Compared to other butter cakes, this one stands out for its simple, old-fashioned charm and rich vanilla flavor. It’s not too sweet, yet incredibly satisfying and it holds up beautifully on a dessert table.
What’s in a Kentucky Butter Cake, Anyway?
Traditionally, Kentucky butter cake includes pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and butter. The star, however, is the butter glaze, poured over the cake while it’s still warm.
This glaze isn’t just decorative, it seeps into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful without being cloyingly sweet. Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and helps keep the crumb tender. If you’re out, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice as a quick sub.
Recipe Card
Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe
12
servings20
minutes1
hour5
minutes460
kcalThis Kentucky butter cake is soft, rich, and soaked in a warm buttery vanilla glaze. A nostalgic, easy-to-make cake with classic Southern charm.
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Ingredients
- Cake:
3 cups 3 all-purpose flour
2 cups 2 granulated sugar
1 teaspoon 1 baking powder
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 baking soda
1 teaspoon 1 salt
1 cup 1 unsalted butter, softened
4 large 4 eggs
1 cup 1 buttermilk
2 teaspoons 2 vanilla extract
- Butter Glaze:
3/4 cup 3/4 sugar
1/3 cup 1/3 unsalted butter
3 tablespoons 3 water
2 teaspoons 2 vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla. Mix on low until moistened, then beat on medium for 2 minutes.
- Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Meanwhile, make the glaze: combine sugar, butter, and water in a saucepan. Heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Once cake is done, poke holes all over with a skewer. Slowly pour glaze over cake in the pan.
- Let cool 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack or plate. Let cool fully before slicing.
Notes
- To make ahead, bake the day before and store covered at room temp.
- You can halve the glaze for a lighter version.
- Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for a pretty finish.
Nutrition Facts
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 5g
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My Go-To Tips for Kentucky Butter Cake Perfection
To make this Kentucky butter cake taste just like Grandma’s (or better), keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Grease the Pan Thoroughly: Use butter and flour or a baking spray with flour to ensure it releases cleanly.
- Poke While Warm: The glaze needs those little holes to soak in. Use a skewer or fork for best results.
- Use Real Butter and Pure Vanilla: It’s a butter cake, this is not the time to cut corners!
Storage Tip: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 5 days. It freezes well too, glaze and all.
Fun Variations to Try
Kentucky Citrus Butter Cake
Add orange or lemon zest to the batter and replace the vanilla in the glaze with citrus extract. A bright, sunny twist!
Coconut Rum Butter Cake
Swap vanilla for coconut extract and add a tablespoon of dark rum to the glaze. Sprinkle with toasted coconut for a tropical flair.
Chocolate Marble Butter Cake
Swirl in a half cup of melted dark chocolate into part of the batter before baking. The glaze still works beautifully.
Espresso Glazed Butter Cake
Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter and use coffee instead of water in the glaze. Deep and sophisticated.
Spiced Apple Butter Cake
Fold in diced apples and cinnamon into the batter. Top with a warm caramel glaze instead of vanilla for fall vibes.
You Asked, I Answered
You may have overbaked it or overmixed the batter. Always test for doneness early and mix just until combined.
Yes, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let sit 5 minutes. Instant buttermilk!
The glaze soaks into the cake, locking in moisture and adding a sugary crust on the outside. It’s what makes this recipe special.
Grease every crevice of your Bundt pan thoroughly, then dust with flour or use baking spray with flour included.
Final Thoughts & What to Try Next
This Kentucky butter cake is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and delivers big flavor with humble ingredients. Whether for a potluck, birthday, or weekend treat, it will earn rave reviews every single time.
Craving more crowd-pleasing desserts? Try these next:
Share your thoughts below or tag me when you make it, I love seeing your creations!
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