Ingredients
Cake:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
Butter Sauce:
¾ cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter
3 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Optional: 2 tablespoons bourbon or rum
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly.
Make the Cake Batter:
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
Remove from oven and place on a wire rack (keep the cake in the pan).
Prepare the Butter Sauce:
While the cake is baking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup sugar, 1/3 cup butter, and 3 tablespoons water.
Cook over medium heat until fully melted and combined, but do not boil.
Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Add bourbon or rum if desired.
Finish the Cake:
Poke holes all over the warm cake using a skewer or fork.
Slowly pour the butter sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting onto a serving plate.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve the cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
The cake can be stored at room temperature for several days, becoming more flavorful as it sits.
Enjoy your homemade Kentucky Butter Cake, a rich, buttery treat perfect for any special occasion or just a cozy night in!