### **Introduction**
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a beloved dessert that blends the richness of butter, a hint of salt, and the irresistible allure of caramel. This moist, decadent cake is celebrated for its complex flavor profile, which combines the sweetness of caramel with a subtle, savory touch from the sea salt. Inspired by the traditional Kentucky butter cake, this modern twist elevates the classic recipe to new heights, making it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts across the United States and beyond.
### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Kentucky Butter Cake has its origins in the state of Kentucky, known for its deep ties to Southern hospitality and traditional baking. The original Kentucky Butter Cake is a dense, buttery cake that gets its name from the rich butter sauce poured over it, soaking into the cake and creating a moist, flavorful dessert. The salted caramel variation adds a contemporary spin to the traditional recipe, capitalizing on the growing popularity of salted caramel as a gourmet flavor profile.
The combination of sweet and salty in salted caramel reflects a trend in American cuisine toward balancing contrasting flavors. In the context of Southern desserts, this cake evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia while also appealing to modern palates.
### **Ingredients and Quantity**
#### **For the Cake:**
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
#### **For the Butter Sauce:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ½ tsp sea salt (adjust based on taste)
#### **Optional Additions:**
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for texture)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg (for warmth)
– ½ cup caramel sauce for drizzling over the cake (for extra caramel flavor)
### **Tips for Success**
1. **Room Temperature Ingredients:** Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to help create a smooth, airy batter.
2. **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined to preserve a light texture.
3. **Quality Butter:** Use high-quality, unsalted butter to get the best flavor.
4. **Adjust Salt Levels:** If you’re not fond of too much salt, you can reduce the amount in the sauce. The salted caramel flavor should enhance the sweetness, not overpower it.
5. **Buttermilk Substitute:** If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar.
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Cake:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
– In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. **Bake the Cake:**
– Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. **Prepare the Butter Sauce:**
– In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, water, vanilla extract, and salt.
– Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
4. **Pour the Sauce Over the Cake:**
– While the cake is still warm (but not hot), pour the salted caramel butter sauce evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak in. If using a bundt pan, carefully drizzle it over the center and let it trickle down the sides.
5. **Optional Toppings:**
– For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts over the cake or drizzle with extra caramel sauce.
### **Description**
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery cake that has a soft crumb and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The warm, golden butter sauce soaks into the cake, creating a syrupy glaze that enhances its flavor. The addition of sea salt in the sauce creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making each bite irresistibly complex. Whether served at a family gathering, holiday meal, or special occasion, this cake is sure to impress guests with both its flavor and presentation.
### **Nutritional Information** (Per serving, based on 12 servings)
– **Calories:** 430 kcal
– **Fat:** 22g
– **Saturated Fat:** 14g
– **Cholesterol:** 80mg
– **Sodium:** 210mg
– **Carbohydrates:** 58g
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugars:** 42g
– **Protein:** 3g
### **Conclusion**
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a perfect fusion of Southern tradition and modern flavor preferences. The rich, buttery cake soaked in a sweet and salty caramel sauce offers a comforting and indulgent dessert experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic cakes or enjoy discovering new flavor combinations, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
### **Recommendation**
This cake is ideal for those who enjoy desserts with a balance of sweet and savory elements. It’s a great choice for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties. For an added touch of elegance, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Embrace the healthful indulgence of this cake and savor each bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to a homemade dessert that’s both luxurious and deeply satisfying.