Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

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Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

Introduction

Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery, and moist cake with a luscious caramel flavor and a hint of salt that balances the sweetness perfectly. This cake is a favorite in many households, especially in the Southern U.S., where butter cakes are a staple. It is one of those cakes that gets better over time, as the buttery caramel sauce seeps into every crumb, creating an irresistibly moist texture. Whether served plain, with ice cream, or with a drizzle of extra caramel, this cake is a showstopper.

History of Kentucky Butter Cake

Kentucky Butter Cake originated in the American South and is similar to pound cake but with a twist—after baking, a rich butter sauce is poured over the warm cake, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This cake became popular in the mid-20th century, often found at church potlucks and family gatherings. The addition of salted caramel gives it a modern upgrade, making it even more decadent.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Butter Sauce:

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
  3. Add the softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase speed to medium and beat for 2–3 minutes until smooth.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan.
  2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Making the Butter Sauce

  1. While the cake is baking, combine sugar, butter, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Adding the Butter Sauce

  1. Once the cake is done, poke holes all over it while still warm. Slowly pour the butter sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.

Step 5: Making the Salted Caramel Sauce

  1. Heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber.
  2. Add butter and stir until melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Let cool slightly.

Step 6: Serving the Cake

  1. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the cake before serving. Enjoy!

Benefits of Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

  • Rich in Flavor – The perfect balance of buttery sweetness with a hint of salt.
  • Moist and Tender – The butter sauce ensures every bite is soft and moist.
  • Crowd Favorite – Loved by both kids and adults at gatherings and holidays.
  • Easy to Make – A simple recipe with impressive results.
  • Versatile – Pairs well with coffee, tea, ice cream, or fresh fruit.

Who Loves This Cake?

  • Southern Bakers – It’s a beloved classic in the South.
  • Caramel Lovers – Anyone who enjoys the deep, buttery taste of caramel.
  • Home Cooks – Because it’s easy and foolproof!
  • Holiday Hosts – A perfect dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or birthdays.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Its rich, buttery flavor, moist texture, and indulgent caramel topping make it irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit!

Would you like variations on this recipe, such as a chocolate version or gluten-free adaptation?

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