Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

Kentucky Butter Cake is a culinary gem that hails from the heart of the American South, renowned for its rich buttery flavor and moist, tender crumb. Its origins trace back to traditional Southern baking, where cakes are often celebrated for their simplicity yet decadent nature. This cake has become a beloved staple at gatherings, family reunions, and festive occasions, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Southern culture.

Indulge in the irresistible Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake, a southern classic elevated with a rich caramel twist. This moist and buttery cake features a tender crumb, soaked in a creamy butter sauce and topped with a luscious salted caramel drizzle. Perfect for gatherings or family celebrations, this easy recipe blends simple ingredients for a delicious dessert that melts in your mouth. Bring warmth and sweetness to your table with this delightful treat!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

3 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

For the Butter Sauce:

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

½ cup water

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for topping)

For the Salted Caramel Drizzle:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

½ cup heavy cream

½ teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan or a 9x13 inch cake pan, ensuring it's well-coated to prevent sticking.

Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, until just combined.

Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing it evenly.

Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Butter Sauce: While the cake is baking, prepare the butter sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 2 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract and flaky sea salt.

Soak the Cake: Once the cake is done baking, allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes. Invert the cake onto a serving plate or cooling rack. While it is still warm, poke holes all over the top using a skewer or fork, and pour about half of the warm butter sauce over the cake, letting it soak in.

Make the Salted Caramel Drizzle: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, whisking continuously until it turns a golden amber color. Slowly add the butter and cream while still whisking; the mixture will bubble vigorously. Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in the flaky sea salt.

Finish the Cake: Drizzle the remaining butter sauce over the cake, followed by the salted caramel drizzle. Let it set before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve: Slice and serve pieces of the cake, drizzled with extra salted caramel if desired. Enjoy your deliciously rich and buttery treat!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12 slices