Kentucky Butter Cake

Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of a true Southern classic: the Kentucky Butter Cake. This homemade masterpiece offers a luxuriously moist butter cake, generously drenched in a rich, buttery rum sauce. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience, a slice of pure comfort that embodies the best of traditional Southern baking. Prepare to discover your new favorite cake recipe!

The Timeless Charm of Kentucky Butter Cake: A Southern Legacy

There are some recipes that stand the test of time, passing down through generations because of their undeniable appeal and simple perfection. The Kentucky Butter Cake is one such treasured recipe. Originating from the heart of Southern hospitality, this cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures. Its enduring popularity stems from its incredible moistness and the harmonious blend of buttery goodness with a hint of warm, sweet rum.

What makes this cake so beloved? It begins with a tender, buttery crumb that practically melts in your mouth, achieved through a careful balance of ingredients and a classic baking method. But the real magic happens post-baking, when the warm cake is lovingly infused with a delectable buttered rum sauce. This glaze seeps into every crevice, transforming an already delicious cake into an extraordinary culinary delight. Each bite delivers a burst of sweet, buttery flavor, complemented by the subtle, aromatic notes of rum, creating a truly unforgettable finish to any meal or a delightful treat on its own.

“I made this today as a Labor Day treat and it is beyond heavenly!!!!!! Thank you so much for the awesome recipe. I did half vanilla and half rum….I just couldn’t bring myself to choose!
– Nicole”

Rum or No Rum? Your Choice for a Perfect Cake

While the traditional Kentucky Butter Cake proudly features rum in its sauce, we understand that not everyone keeps rum in their pantry or prefers its flavor. The good news is, you absolutely can make this cake and its accompanying sauce without rum, and it will still be incredibly delicious! The flexibility of this recipe is one of its many strengths.

If you wish to omit alcohol, a straightforward substitution for the rum in both the cake batter and the sauce is pure vanilla extract. Vanilla provides a wonderfully fragrant and sweet aroma that complements the butter perfectly, resulting in a classic, comforting flavor profile. For those who enjoy the essence of rum without the alcohol, rum extract is an excellent alternative. It delivers that distinctive rum taste, allowing you to maintain the traditional flavor profile without any alcoholic content. Simply follow the recipe, swapping out the rum for your chosen extract in the specified amounts. Whichever you choose, the buttery richness and moist texture of this cake are guaranteed to shine through, making it a versatile dessert for all palates.

The Secret to Ultimate Moistness: Buttermilk is Key

One of the hallmarks of an exceptional Kentucky Butter Cake is its astounding moistness. This isn’t just any moist cake; it’s a cake that stays tender and delicious for days. The secret to this superior texture lies predominantly in one crucial ingredient: buttermilk. Often overlooked or substituted, buttermilk plays a vital role that cannot be overstated in this recipe. Its natural acidity reacts with the baking soda, creating tiny air bubbles that result in a wonderfully light and tender crumb. Furthermore, buttermilk’s creamy thickness contributes significantly to the cake’s overall richness and moisture retention.

We understand the temptation to swap buttermilk for regular milk if it’s not readily available, but we strongly advise against it for this particular recipe. The unique properties of buttermilk are essential for achieving the signature texture and depth of flavor. If you find yourself without buttermilk, don’t despair! You can easily make a homemade substitute. Simply add one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill the rest of the cup with regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) until it reaches the 1-cup mark. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. This quick hack mimics the acidity of store-bought buttermilk and will help you achieve that coveted moistness without an extra trip to the grocery store. Trust us, using real or homemade buttermilk makes all the difference here!

Essential Ingredients & Expert Baking Tips

Ingredients for the Cake and Sauce:

Crafting the perfect Kentucky Butter Cake starts with quality ingredients and a few insider tips to ensure baking success.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps with browning. While alternatives can be used, keep in mind they may affect texture and moisture slightly.
• Eggs: For the best emulsification and a smoother batter, allow your eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps them incorporate more evenly into the other ingredients, leading to a more consistent cake texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened unsalted butter is crucial for creaming properly with sugar, creating air pockets that give the cake its light structure. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, a quick trick is to cut it into smaller pieces and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, or microwave it in 5-second bursts until just softened, not melted.
• Buttermilk: As highlighted, buttermilk is indispensable for the cake’s signature moistness and tender crumb. Do not substitute with regular milk unless you use the DIY trick mentioned above.
• All-Purpose Flour: Proper flour measurement is paramount to avoid a dry, dense cake. Always use the “spoon and level” method: gently spoon flour into your measuring cup until it’s overflowing, then level it off with the flat side of a knife. Never scoop directly from the bag, as this compacts the flour and can add up to 25% more than intended.
• Salt: A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cake.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: This recipe utilizes both leavening agents. Baking soda reacts with the acidic buttermilk to create lift, while baking powder provides additional leavening. Ensure both are fresh and active for optimal rise; old leavening agents can lead to a flat, heavy cake. You can test baking soda by adding a pinch to vinegar (it should fizz) and baking powder by adding a pinch to hot water (it should bubble).
• Rum (or Vanilla/Rum Extract) for Cake & Sauce: The rum is optional but highly recommended for an authentic flavor. Use a good quality rum, or substitute with vanilla extract for a classic flavor, or rum extract for the rum taste without alcohol. Consistency in the extract usage across cake and sauce maintains flavor harmony.
• Water: Used in the sauce to help dissolve the sugar and create the perfect pourable consistency for soaking into the cake.

Crafting Your Kentucky Butter Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Cake Batter

The journey to a perfect Kentucky Butter Cake begins with meticulous batter preparation:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures the oven is at a consistent temperature when the cake goes in, promoting even baking.
2. Prepare your bundt pan. A 10-cup bundt pan is ideal for this recipe. Generously spray it with a nonstick baking spray that contains flour (like Baker’s Joy). This flour-containing spray is especially beneficial for intricate bundt pans, ensuring the cake releases cleanly and beautifully. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the pan to prevent sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, room-temperature large eggs, softened unsalted butter, and buttermilk. Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This creaming step is vital for incorporating air into the batter, which contributes to the cake’s tender texture.
4. Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and your chosen flavoring (rum, vanilla extract, or rum extract) to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added, as overmixing can develop the gluten too much, leading to a tough, dry cake. Mix only until no dry streaks of flour remain.

Baking to Perfection

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to bake your beautiful cake:

1. Carefully pour the prepared cake batter into your well-greased bundt pan. Spread it evenly to ensure a level bake.
2. Place the bundt pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 55 to 60 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s crucial to check for doneness.
3. The cake is ready when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean, with no wet batter attached. If it’s still wet, continue baking in 5-minute increments until done.
4. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the bundt pan for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period in the pan is important for the cake to set and firm up, making it easier to invert without breaking.
5. After cooling in the pan, gently invert the cake onto a serving plate. For best results when adding the sauce, choose a serving plate with slightly raised edges or a rim to contain the generous amount of buttery rum sauce that will be poured over it.

The Irresistible Buttery Rum Glaze

The signature element of this cake is its incredible glaze:

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the buttery rum sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients: sugar, unsalted butter, water, and your chosen flavoring (rum, vanilla extract, or rum extract).
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the butter is fully melted and the sugar is completely dissolved. The sauce should be warm and well combined, but do not allow it to boil. Boiling can cause the sugar to crystallize and alter the sauce’s consistency.
3. Once the sauce is ready, immediately and slowly pour it over the warm cake. You can enhance the absorption by using a skewer or fork to poke several holes evenly across the top and sides of the cake before pouring the sauce. For deeper penetration, some bakers even use a turkey baster to drizzle the sauce directly into these holes. However, simply pouring it slowly and evenly over the cake will also allow it to beautifully soak up the rich, buttery goodness.
4. Allow the cake to sit and absorb the sauce for at least 15-30 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to become even more moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

New to baking this Southern delight? Here are answers to some common questions to help you achieve perfection:

What kind of bundt pan should I use?

A 10-cup bundt pan is the standard size for this recipe. Ensure it has a non-stick coating or is meticulously greased and floured. Pans with intricate designs can be beautiful but sometimes trickier for cake release; a simpler design might be easier for beginners.

How can I tell if my baking powder and baking soda are still active?

For baking soda, place a teaspoon in a small bowl and add a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice. If it fizzes vigorously, it’s active. For baking powder, add a teaspoon to about half a cup of hot water. If it bubbles, it’s good to go. If either produces a weak reaction, it’s time to replace them.

How do I prevent my bundt cake from sticking?

Generously grease your bundt pan with a non-stick baking spray containing flour, or use solid shortening (like Crisco) and dust thoroughly with flour. Pay extra attention to all crevices and ensure the entire surface is coated. For intricate pans, use a pastry brush to ensure even coverage. An alternative is to melt some butter, brush it on, then dust with flour.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Kentucky Butter Cake actually benefits from sitting for a day, as it allows the rum sauce to fully penetrate and moisten the cake, deepening its flavor. Store it at room temperature, covered tightly, for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.

How should I store leftover Kentucky Butter Cake?

Store leftover cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm for a fresh-baked taste.

Elevate Your Dessert: Serving Suggestions & Variations

The Kentucky Butter Cake is a star on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate it further:

• Simple Perfection: Serve slices simply, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• A Scoop of Creaminess: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, buttery cake.
• Fruity Companions: Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, or a compote of peaches, can add a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness.
• Nutty Crunch: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts over each slice before serving adds a lovely textural element and complementary flavor.
• Spice It Up: For a twist, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter or the rum sauce for an extra layer of warmth.
• Citrus Zest: A hint of orange or lemon zest in the batter or sauce can brighten the flavor profile beautifully.

Craving More Southern Delights?

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of this Kentucky Butter Cake, you’re in for a treat! The world of Southern baking is vast and full of delicious discoveries. Here are more recipes that capture the essence of traditional Southern comfort:

• Southern Pound Cake
• Kentucky Derby Pie
• Butter Rum Blondies
• Louisiana Crunch Cake
• Sock It To Me Cake
• Pecan Praline Cake with Butter Sauce
• Watergate Cake
• Southern Banana Pudding
• Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
• Cinnamon Roll Cake
• Italian Love Cake
• White Texas Sheet Cake
• Homemade Yellow Cake Mix
• Punch Bowl Cake

Originally published: May 2011
Updated photos and republished: April 2025

Kentucky Butter Cake

Kentucky Butter Cake is a homemade moist butter cake that is topped with a buttered rum sauce. The ultimate southern cake recipe!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (13 Reviews)

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Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 10 | Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 sticks unsalted butter (1 cup), softened to room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons rum (can use rum extract or vanilla extract)

For the rum sauce:

• ¾ cup sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter
• 3 Tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons rum (can use rum extract or vanilla extract)

Instructions

For the cake:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F degrees. Spray a 10-cup bundt pan with nonstick baking spray. Note: Baker’s Joy spray is recommended as it contains flour, ideal for baked goods. Ensure thorough spraying into all nooks and crannies.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 2 cups sugar, 4 large eggs, 2 sticks unsalted butter (1 cup), softened to room temperature, and 1 cup buttermilk with an electric mixer (stand or handheld).
3. Add 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and 2 teaspoons rum (or substitute) and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan.
5. Bake in the preheated oven (on the middle rack) for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before carefully removing. Transfer the cake to a serving plate with slightly higher sides to hold the buttered rum sauce.

For the rum sauce:

1. Combine ¾ cup sugar, ⅓ cup unsalted butter, 3 Tablespoons water, and 2 teaspoons rum (or substitute) in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until fully melted and warm, stirring constantly. Do not boil!
2. Pour the warm sauce very slowly and evenly over the top of the cake. The cake will slowly soak up the sauce. For deeper penetration, you may poke holes in the cake with a skewer before pouring.

Video

Course: Dessert | Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 611kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 27g | Sodium: 343mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 56g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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