Directions:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan, making sure to coat all the crevices well.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour mixture) to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Butter Glaze:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and water, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Glaze the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, place it on a serving platter. While the cake is still warm (but not too hot), pour the warm butter glaze evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak into the cake as it drips down the sides.
5. Serve:
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving, allowing the glaze to set. Slice and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Variations: While the classic Kentucky Butter Cake is delicious as is, you can add a twist by incorporating lemon zest, almond extract, or even a bit of bourbon (since Kentucky is known for its whiskey) into the batter or glaze.
- Glaze Options: If you like a thicker glaze, you can double the glaze ingredients and pour more over the cake. For a lighter version, reduce the glaze ingredients by half.
- Storage: This cake stores well for several days. Keep it covered in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay moist and delicious.
Healthier Option:
While Kentucky Butter Cake is rich and indulgent, you can make a slightly lighter version by substituting part of the butter for applesauce or yogurt. You can also use a lower-fat version of buttermilk and reduce the sugar in the glaze for a less sweet but still tasty result.
