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A perfect slice of moist Kentucky Butter Cake on a white plate. The golden, buttery crust and tender interior crumb are clearly visible.

Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe

Discover the best Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe! This classic Southern dessert features a moist, tender vanilla pound cake soaked in a sweet butter sauce for an unbelievably rich flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs room temperature
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Butter Sauce
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 1 10-cup Bundt Pan
  • 1 Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • 1 Small saucepan

Method
 

Make the Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the room temperature butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk in two additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix only until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Butter Sauce and Finish
  1. While the cake cools, combine the sugar, butter, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
  2. Use a wooden skewer to poke holes all over the bottom of the warm cake in the pan.
  3. Slowly pour about three-quarters of the warm sauce over the cake. Let the cake sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the sauce.
  4. Place a serving platter over the pan and carefully invert the cake. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top and sides. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Do Not Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cake. Overbaking is the fastest way to a dry cake, even with the butter sauce.
Got Lumps? If your batter looks curdled, your ingredients were likely too cold. Don't worry, it will often bake out just fine!
No Buttermilk? You can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of whole milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.