Kentucky Butter Cake is a rich, buttery, crazy moist vanilla poke cake infused with luscious butter sauce that soaks through the cake AND is smothered on the cake leaving an irresistible sugar crust on the outside. This sweet, tender cake is stand-alone delicious or fabulous with berries and whipped cream. This Kentucky Butter Cake is easy to make and tastes even better the next day – perfect for stress free entertaining or holidays (like Easter!). It also tastes even better with gluten free flour! Tips and tricks, Step-by-Step Photos, How to Make Ahead, How To Freeze all included!
What is Kentucky Butter Cake?
Have you ever had the pleasure of devouring Kentucky Butter Cake? I tragically ate my way through most of my life without tasting this bliss. It wasn’t until my birthday a few years ago that I sunk my teeth into one of life’s culinary delights.
If you aren’t familiar with Kentucky Butter Cake, is it is essentially a vanilla poke pound cake combined with a butter crunch cake. It was originally made by Nell Lewis in 1963 who entered it into a Pillsbury Bake-off contest in Missouri and won. The recipe has since taken the internet world by storm.
What sets Kentucky Butter Cake apart is the sweet butter vanilla sauce. You poke holes in the bottom of the cake while its still warm then the holes get filled with luscious sweet sauce. The sauce seeps into the rest of the cake creating the most wonderfully moist cake you ever did taste – seriously melt-in-your-mouth-mesmerizing. The glaze also creates a crunchy, crackling bottom that is my FAVORITE part of the cake.
The entire exterior of the Kentucky Butter Cake also gets brushed with sugary butter sauce that sets up to create a crispy, sweet crust, much like a donut.
Kentucky Butter Cake is like a velvet pound cake in texture – rich, tender, dense and decadent as opposed to light and airy – which makes it the perfect sponge for the sweet buttery sauce.
So basically, you have a soft, buttery, sugary interior, a buttery, sugar crunchy exterior that tastes of rich vanilla and butter all over without tasting too sweet. Are you drooling yet?
Why you will love this Butter Cake Recipe
I brought this Kentucky Butter Cake to my father-in-law’s 75th birthday this past weekend and everyone was swooning all over it! Which ALWAYS happens. You can’t bring this Kentucky Buttery Cake anywhere without it being an overwhelming crowd pleaser!
There are thousands of Kentucky Butter Cake recipes out there and they are basically all the same recipe with varied techniques – but my recipe is different. It uses a different cake recipe, techniques, and ratios. Here is what makes this Kentucky Butter Cake AMAZING:
- GREASED WITH SUGAR: Have you ever buttered and “floured” your pan with sugar? It creates a delightful sugar crust! I’ve included exactly how I do this in the recipe.
- BETTER CAKE: This Kentucky Butter Cake begins with my favorite vanilla Bundt cake recipe that is butterier and more tender because it has more butter and one more egg. I did a side by side comparison of my cake and the original recipe ever blogger uses and EVERY taste tester preferred my Kentucky Butter Cake.
- TECHNIQUE: this recipe uses room temperature ingredients (more on that below) and creams the butter and sugar which creates a much more tender, fluffy cake instead of just mixing the ingredients all in one bowl like many recipes.
- MORE BUTTER SAUCE: The star of this Kentucky Butter Cake is the Butter Sauce. Every pocket of butter sauce is the highlight of the cake – so why not make more Sauce to go around? Now every bite is a highlight! With this additional sauce, it doesn’t need powdered sugar, but you can still add it if you like.
- BUTTER GLAZE: The Butter Sauce doubles as the tantalizing Glaze. Half of the sauce gets poured into the poked holes in the cake and the other half is reserved to glaze the baked cake. We wait until the cake is cooled then brush with glaze to create the tantalizing crust.
- NO STICK: Kentucky Butter Cake is notorious for sticking because the glaze essentially creates a glue. I have found the key so your cake doesn’t stick is to remove the cake from the pan while it’s still warm, just like you do all Bundt cakes. Now you’re guaranteed a Kentucky Butter Cake that comes out in one piece! So, you can eat piece after piece after piece…
BUTTER CAKE INGREDIENTS
To make this butter cake recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients, many of which are repeats in the cake and the butter sauce:
- Butter: Unsalted is typically best for baked goods so we can add the precise amount of salt. If you only have salted, butter, you will need to reduce the salt in the recipe.
- Sugar: Use granulated sugar in both the cake and the sauce.
- Eggs: Need to be at room temperature! More on that below.
- All-purpose flour: I have made this cake with regular flour and with Bob’s Red’s Mill Gluten Free 1 to 1 flour. While both flours work well, the gluten free flour makes for even a more tender cake so it’s perfect to serve gluten free friends.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Helps to tenderize the cake and helps it rise in the oven.
- Buttermilk: Is more acidic than milk which helps tenderize the gluten, giving the cake a softer texture and more body. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a sour milk substitute with milk and vinegar.
Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe variations
This Kentucky Butter Cake is delicious in its simplicity but it is also creates a blank canvas for virtually any extract. You can use almond, orange, lemon, peppermint or rum (the original flavor).
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake
This Kentucky Buttery Cake takes less than 15 minutes to mix – so please don’t be intimidated by the thorough tips and tricks!
Grease Bundt Cake Pan
You will need a 10-inch, 12 cup nonstick Bundt cake pan for this Kentucky Butter Cake recipe. I usually love using nonstick cooking sprays with flour to grease my pans – but please do NOT use a spray for this cake because it is sticky!
Instead, you can use good old’ shortening or butter with flour OR add in a little sugar. I like to butter, sugar and flour my pan for this Kentucky Bundt Cake because it helps create a sugar crust.
Also be aware that older Bundt pans have a tendency to stick, especially if the coating has rubbed off in any area.
To grease and flour your pan:
- Brush an even layer of softened butter all over the inside of the pan (about 1 ½ tablespoons). Make sure you get every nook and cranny!
- Next, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar – starting with the top edges of the pan so it trickles down the pan – make sure you do the same to the tube too, and tap and turn the pan to evenly coat.
- Repeat with one tablespoon of flour. Tap a few times to remove any excess. You probably don’t need the flour if using sugar, but I always use it for insurance. You can also follow the same technique and omit the sugar and just use 2 tablespoons flour.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
You will need room temperature butter, buttermilk and eggs for this Kentucky Butter Cake. Room temperature ingredients mix much easier (so it’s harder to overmix) and whisk to a higher volume which results in a softer Bundt cake with maximum volume. Cold eggs result in a denser cake.
To quickly bring eggs to room temperature, add warm (not hot) tap water to a bowl then add eggs (still in their shells) for at least 20 minutes. You can microwave your buttermilk until room temperature (NOT hot).
DIY Buttermilk
I never keep buttermilk on hand – but I ALWAYS want to make Kentucky Butter Cake! Buttermilk is crucial for a tender crumb because the lactic acid reacts with the baking soda to leaven the cake.
Fortunately, you can make DIY buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring glass then adding enough milk to equal one cup. Give it a stir and let sit 10 minutes. The milk will curdle so you know it’s ready.
Cream Until Fluffy
One of the keys to a soft cake is to cream your sugar and butter until light and fluffy. You should beat your butter and sugar at medium – high speed for at least 3-5 minutes. I suggest setting a timer because 3 minutes will seem extra-long but you don’t want to cut it short.
This step is so important because it is the only time you want to whip air into the cake batter to create bubbles. The bubbles will expand as the cake bakes, resulting in a lighter cake. If you don’t cream them enough, your cake will be denser, not as tender, or rise as high.
Don’t Over-bMix
Once you’re done creaming the butter and sugar, you want to beat the batter as little as possible. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating just until the yellow disappears after each egg. You never want to overbeat eggs as this will cause the batter to be runny and may cause the batter to overflow when baking.
Don’t peek!
I know it is going to be hard not to peak at your Kentucky Butter, but please don’t open the door! Opening the doors can cause your cake to cook unevenly and to fall. Only check on your cake at 50 minutes.
Don’t overbake!
One of the main reasons people complain of dry cakes is because they over bake their cake You want to remove your cake when there are just a few crumbs clinging to a toothpick. Check your Kentucky Butter Cake at 50 minutes then continue to cook as needed, setting a timer so you don’t overbake it.
Poke Holes
Here comes the fun part! Let the Kentucky Butter Cake rest for 5 minutes then poke holes all over the bottom of the cake, about 45 holes. I have found the thin end of a chopstick to be just the right size. Skewers are too thin and the back of a spoon is too big.
If you don’t have chopsticks, try and find something similar in size such as the back of a utensil. If all else fails, you can use a skewer but wiggle it around a little to create a bigger hole.
You will want to poke the holes about ¾ of the way down. This allows the butter sauce to penetrate the cake without oozing out the top and sticking to the pan.
Make Butter Glaze/Sauce
Immediately after poking holes in the cake, make the Butter Sauce. You don’t want to make the sauce too soon because it will crystallize and harden. Making it when the vanilla cake comes out of the oven is perfect because it also gives the cake a few minutes to cool. If you pour the glaze over the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven, the cake is so hot it will absorb all the glaze and the sugary, crunchy coating won’t form – nooooooooooo!
Pour Sauce into Holes
To use the sauce, reserve ¼ cup (to glaze the cooled cake later) and pour the rest of the sauce into the holes of the cake. You’ll want to add the sauce slowly so it actually seeps into the holes of the cake and doesn’t pool and drip down the edges of the cake.
How long to wait before taking cake out of pan
After you’ve poured the sauce over the Kentucky Butter Cake, let it sit for 30 minutes. You don’ want to let it cool any longer or the glaze can stick and harden like glue.
When you’re ready remove the cake, run a knife around the edges of the cake. Firmly tap the outside of the pan a few times until you feel the cake is loose, then invert the cake onto a plate or cake stand.
I have never had a problem with any of my Kentucky Butter Cakes sticking but if any of your cake is left behind in the pan, simply pick up the pieces and patch them back into the cake. The glaze will act like glue to keep them in place and you can use powdered sugar to hide any imperfections.
Glaze Cake
Rewarm the Glaze (again, not letting it boil) and brush it evenly over the cake, moving slowly so it has time to seep in. Let the cake sit for at least one hour before serving, but it is much moister and more flavorful if allowed to rest overnight.
Can I make Buttercake ahead of time?
Yes, I highly encourage it! This Kentucky Butter Cake tastes much better if made one day ahead of time – the flavors develop AND the cake becomes moister – so please try and plan accordingly – and you will taste the difference!
Make-Ahead Instructions:
- Once cake is cool and the glaze is set, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or cover in an overturned bowl or cake carrier. You can also store your cake in the microwave.
- Store at room temperature until ready to serve.
- I like to microwave individual slices for 10 seconds or so.
- This cake keeps well for several days, but is best the second day.
Butter Cake Recipe tips
We’ve gone over most of the tips for success in the above section, but here are a few more areas to pay attention to:
- Use the correct size pan: You will need a 10-inch/12-cup Bundt cake pan for this recipe. Make sure it is a nonstick pan in good condition otherwise your cake will stick.
- Prep Ahead: As with all recipes, carefully read through the entire recipe, and prepare any special ingredients, such as room temperature butter, eggs and buttermilk.
- Room temperature eggs hack: Add warm (not hot) tap water to a bowl then add eggs (still in their shells) for at least 20 minutes. You can microwave your buttermilk until room temperature (NOT hot).
- Pre-Measure Ingredients: This is optional but I like to pre-measure my ingredients before I start so that way, if/when I get interrupted, I haven’t lost track of measurements.
- Don’t pack flour: Whenever you measure flour, don’t scoop it into the flour bag/container or else the flour will compress and packed flour yields denser, drier cakes. Rather, scoop flour into measuring cup and then level.
- Release air bubbles from batter: Cake batter needs air in order to bake up light and fluffy, but you don’t want the air bubbles caused from adding the batter to the pan because too much air will create holes and cracks in the baked cake. To help get rid of air bubbles, tap the pans on the counter a few times after filling them with batter and wiggle back and forth. This will make the air bubbles rise to the top of your cake.
- Bake cake immediately: Don’t forget to preheat your oven before you start making the cake batter. Once the baking soda is added to the wet ingredients, a chemical reaction begins. You need to take advantage of this reaction quickly before it passes otherwise your cake won’t rise as high or be as tender.
- Invert cake onto parchment paper: Brush excess glaze on the bottom of the cake into the holes. If you have excess glaze on the bottom of the cake, you should invert the cake onto a parchment paper lined plate otherwise it can stick to the plate when serving.
- Patch up any missing cake: I have never had a problem with any of my butter cakes sticking, but if any cake is left behind in the pan, simply pick up the pieces and patch them back into the cake. The glaze added to the top of the cake will hide any imperfections.
How to serve Butter Bundt Cake
Kentucky Butter Cake is delicious in its buttery vanilla simplicity, but I also love it with:
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Fresh berries: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and/or blackberries
- Strawberry syrup or raspberry syrup – insane!
- A dollop of whipped cream (and berries!)
- Vanilla ice cream (and berries!)
- Lemon curd (and berries!)
- Chocolate ganache
- Caramel sauce
How to store Butter Cake
Once the cake has cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or use a cake cover. Store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the wrapped or covered cake in the refrigerator. This can extend its freshness for up to a week, however, refrigeration can dry out the cake.
Can I freeze Butter Bundt Cake?
- Let the glaze on the exterior of the cake set completely.
- Double wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze cake for up to 3 months.
- Allow the cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator then unwrap and come to room temperature on the counter before serving.
Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
The main difference between a butter cake and a pound cake is in their proportions. A traditional pound cake is made with equal parts of four primary ingredients: one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, resulting in a dense and rich cake. On the other hand, a butter cake contains less butter and sugar relative to the other ingredients, yielding a lighter and softer texture, often with a more delicate flavor.
Several factors can contribute to a butter cake being dry instead of moist. Here are some common reasons:
Incorrectly measuring flour: Whenever you measure flour, don’t scoop it into the flour bag/container or else the flour will compress and packed flour yields denser, drier cakes. Rather, scoop flour into measuring cup and then level.
Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can develop too much gluten, leading to a tougher and drier texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Old Ingredients: Using old or expired ingredients, such as outdated baking powder, can result in a cake that doesn’t rise properly and is dry.
Overbaking: Removing the cake from the oven when it’s just done, with a few moist crumbs clinging to a toothpick, is essential. Leaving it in the oven for too long can dry it out.
It’s best to remove a bundt cake from the pan while it’s still hot, ideally, 10-15 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the cake to set and firm up slightly so it holds its shape and doesn’t fall apart, but is still pliable so it’s less likely to break apart during the removal process. Removing the cake while still hot also helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan. As the cake cools, it contracts and adhere more firmly to the pan’s surface, making it more challenging to release without breaking.
Looking for more Easter Cake Recipes?
- Coconut Cake (Triple Coconut!)
- Carrot Cake with Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese Stuffed Carrot Cake
- Lemon Poke Cake
- Chocolate Raspberry Cake
- Chocolate Eclair Cake
- Lemon Blueberry Cake
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake
- Chocolate Covered Strawberry Pound Cake
- Blueberry Muffin Cake
- Strawberry Shortcakes
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Kentucky Butter Cake
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Ingredients
Cake
- 24 tablespoons (3 sticks) unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs at room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour or gluten free 1 to 1 baking flour (I use Bob's Red Mill)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk or sour milk* see notes
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Generously and thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch (12-cup) Bundt pan. See Notes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Whisk vanilla with buttermilk and set aside.
- Add butter and sugar to a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and beat on medium-high speed for at least 3-4 minutes (no shorter!), until light and fluffy, scraping down sides occasionally. Reduce speed to medium and add eggs, one at a time, beating just until the yellow disappears after each egg.
- Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture in thirds, alternately with buttermilk in between each third. Beat just until combined, giving the batter a final stir by hand to get any flour at the bottom.
- Transfer batter to prepared Bundt pan and tap pan on the counter a few times to get rid of any air bubbles. Bake at 325 degrees F until a wooden pick inserted near the center of cake comes out with a few crumbs, 50 – 60 minutes.
- Place cake on a wire rack and let rest 5 minutes then poke holes all over the cake, going about ¾ of the way down using the thin end of a chopstick. You may also use the back of a utensil or a skewer, but you’ll want wiggle it around so the holes become larger.
- Immediately after poking holes in the cake, make the Butter Glaze. Add sugar, butter, water and salt to a medium saucepan. Heat on low until melted, stirring occasionally, without letting the mixture boil. Once melted, stir in the vanilla and optional cinnamon.
- Remove ¼ cup Glaze to use later. Spoon the remaining Glaze all over the bottom (which is now the top) of the cake, moving slowly so it has time to seep into the holes and not run over the edges of the cake.
- Let the cake cool for 30 minutes (no longer or the glaze can stick and harden like glue) then run a knife around the edges of the cake, shake a few times until loose then invert the cake onto a plate or cake stand.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, rewarm the Glaze (DON’T let it boil) and brush it evenly all over the cake, moving slowly so it has time to seep in. Let the cake sit for at least one hour before serving, but it is much moister and more flavorful if allowed to rest overnight. If not serving immediately, tightly wrap cooled and set cake in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.
- Serve cake plain or amazing with fresh berries and whipped cream or strawberry or raspberry sauce.
Notes
*DIY BUTTEREMILK
You can make DIY buttermilk/sour milk by adding 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to a measuring cup then adding milk to equal one cup. Give it a swirl and wait 10 minutes or so until bubbles form on the top.GREASE PAN WELL!
Please grease and flour your pan instead of using cooking spray because this cake is sticky! I also SUGAR my pan. To do this:- Brush an even layer of softened butter all over the inside of the pan (about 1 ½ tablespoons). Make sure you get every nook and cranny!
- Next, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar – starting with the top edges of the pan so it trickles down the pan – make sure you do the same to the tube too, and tap and turn the pan to evenly coat.
- Repeat with one tablespoon of flour. Tap a few times to remove any excess. You probably don’t need the flour if using sugar, but I always use it for insurance.
What To Serve With Kentucky Bunt Cake
Kentucky Butter Cake is delicious in its buttery vanilla simplicity, but I also love it with:- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Fresh berries: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and/or blackberries
- Strawberry syrup or raspberry syrup – insane!
- A dollop of whipped cream (and berries!)
- Vanilla ice cream (and berries!)
- Lemon curd (and berries!)
- Chocolate ganache
- Caramel sauce
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Once cake is cool and the glaze is set, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store at room temperature until ready to serve.
- This cake keeps well for several days, but is best the second day.
How to Freeze
- Let the glaze on the exterior of the cake set completely.
- Double wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze cake for up to 3 months.
- Allow the cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator then unwrap and come to room temperature on the counter before serving.
- Note that the crackly sugar coating will not be as crunchy once frozen and defrosted.
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Kathy Bell says
Can you make this for me & send it to me? Please?
Jen says
I wish! I’m excited for you to try it!
Rachel says
This looks AMAZING. I’m making this for the weekend!
Jen says
YAY! I’m so excited for you to make it! Please let me know what you think!
Sue R says
Yes I’m totally drooling. I’d make it this weekend but my bundt pan and stand mixer are sitting in a shipping container on our driveway. Our home got flooded last month badly along with my car. I will pin it for when we can move back in though because I really need to try this! Your recipes are always gorgeous. Love reading them so thank you.
Jen says
I’m so sorry your home and car got flooded, that is awful! I hope everything is on the up and up! Thank you so much for your kind words – I wish I could bring you a piece!
Tiana says
I made this cake yesterday. I had some apprehension. Afraid that it would stick. Well, it absolutely did not. That big beautiful cake slid right out. I used Crisco baking and also sprayed a thin layer of Bakers Joy. I followed the recipe to the letter. I’m on keto so I didn’t eat any. But, everyone in the family is raving about
this cake. Thanks for sharing. New fave.
Jen says
You are a saint to make this butter cake for your family and not eat any! I’m so pleased it was such a hit!
Parcel World says
I am really happy to say it’s an interesting recipe to read . I learn new recipe from your article , you are doing a great job . Keep it up
Jen says
Thank you so much!
Cindy says
Hello! You had me at butter! This cake sounds heavenly….I’ve been wanting to bake something for when my in laws visit and I’m so excited to do a test run! Can’t wait. Thanks for providing such clear and detailed directions. 🙂
Jen says
You are so welcome Cindy! I love the idea of a test run – more for you 🙂 Can’t wait to hear what you think!
Janelle says
Sounds yummy!
24 tbsp of butter is 3 sticks or 1.5 cups. Is there as reason you wrote the measurement in tbsp but perhaps forgot to include in the directions, such as adding 1 tbsp at a time?? I can’t see wanting to measure out 24 separate tbsp of butter.
Jen says
Hi Janelle, you add all the butter at once, enjoy!
Noelle says
Would this work in a mini bundt pan?
Jen says
i don’t see why not – you’ll just need to reduce the recipe – or cook the rest in a smaller rectangular pan
Corie says
I was lucky enough to actually enjoy this cake firsthand when Jen made it. It was absolutely delicious and all self control went out the window (I definitely had more than one piece and the workout I had to do to make up for it was totally worth the indulgence). Super moist, dense, and the perfect balance of flavors. You will LOVE it!
Jen says
Thanks so much much Corie, I’m so glad I got to share it with you! xoxox
Mimi L. says
I I could barely contain myself waiting to make this cake for our Christmas dinner. Where did I go wron? Looking at it bake through the oben door, it looked perfect. I used ingredients as dirtrced, and step by followed everything. The only thing which may be my problem is that I forhot that I had donated my mixer, I best the batter by hand. I poured the butter sauce as directed, buy it was spongey in cutting it and a little dense and spongey in the taste. My grandson loved it but I through the slices I bought home in the trash. So disappointed! Was it the hsnd beating?
Jen says
Hi Mimi, yes it was the hand beating. It would be difficult to mimic mixing on medium-high for 4 minutes by hand in order to make the batter light enough.
Nikki says
My sister and I have both had this recipe bookmarked. She made it for our Easter dessert, using gluten free flour. It was delicious! Thanks for another great recipe.
Jen says
I’m so happy it worked well with gluten free flour, thanks Nikki!
Elle says
I finally got the chance to make this Kentucky butter cake and it was fantastic! Not only was the recipe clear and easy to follow, your detailed advice in the post was a huge help!! I don’t make bundt cakes very often, but this one turned out flawless. The butter/sugar/flour coating worked perfect- it did not stick at all!! Thank you for another wonderful recipe. My husband is from Kentucky and he is in love with this cake. So good warmed up with vanilla ice cream!
Jen says
Thank you so much Elle, I’m so glad you loved the cake and found my advice helpful! I’m thrilled you could serve your husband a slice of home!
Michelle says
Hi I made this cake and used self-rising flour but it did not rise well at all. The taste was delicious. I may have creamed the sugar and butter longer than 5 minutes.
Maybe 6 minutes. Would this have caused the issue? Thanks for the recipe. I will try again. Although, this one is tasty. Thanks.
Jen says
Hi Michelle, I would stick to AP flour and the baking powder and baking soda per the recipe and you shouldn’t have any problems. So happy you loved the taste!
Jessica says
I’m making this RIGHT NOW! It looks to good to pass up. Onto the buttery sauce now! Thanks for posting!! #OmNomNom
Jen says
You’re so welcome Jessica! I hope you absolutely loved it!
Danielle says
Made this tonight for our wedding anniversary dinner tomorrow (at home in isolation of course). Planned to let it sit for a day per your advice but couldn’t wait – we already ate half of it!!! So delicious and perfect. I might need this in my regular dessert rotation! Your instructions were much more detailed and clear than I’m used to – appreciate it very much. I’m typically very improvisational/experimental in the kitchen but I wouldn’t change a thing about your recipe or method. Bravo!
Jen says
Thank you so much Danielle! I’m thrilled you loved this Kentucky Butter Cake exactly as written and found my instructions helpful! Happy Anniversary!!!
Di says
I decided to try this recipe – I had never heard of KY Butter Cake. All the comments I’ve seen on this site and others gave rave reviews. I made it EXACTLY as you stated in your instructions. Even used the optional cinnamon in the glaze. This was by far the most outstanding cake I have ever had (and I am not a sweets person). I have to agree w/ your instructions for creaming butter/sugar. Most bakers do not beat for 3-5 min — it is a MUST to incorporate air and have that moist/fluffy texture. Had no issues turning cake out of bundt pan either. I did sprinkle my bundt pan w/ sugar and then flour as you stated. Easy peasy. Have to add that using smaller end of chopsticks to poke holes was brilliant! This is now my “go to” recipe for a quick cake bake. Thank you so much for sharing. I would not change a thing!
Jen says
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment DI, you made my day! I am thrilled you loved this Kentucky Butter Cake so much and that it’s your now quick cake bake!
Sylvia says
I just made this cake exactly as per the recipe. It turned out flawless and absolutely delicious. I made it for my family who came to visit and they loved it!!
Jen says
YAY! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and make my day Sylvia! I’m thrilled it was such a flawless hit!
Mandy says
Girl, you snapped with this recipe!!! I already know I’ll be making this plenty for the Holiday’s. I followed all of your instructions to a tee truly appreciated the detail. The cake came out so flawlessly I just had to leave a comment. Thank you!!
Jen says
You’re so welcome Mandy, I’m thrilled you loved this Kentucky Butter Cake so much and found my tips helpful! Thanks for making my day and taking the time to comment!
Jennifer D. says
Have you ever made this recipe using mini Bundt pans? I was interested in making this to give out to my neighbors, but not sure how long to cook it in mini form.
Jen says
Hi Jen, I haven’t. I would google the cooking time for your specific size of pan. Good luck!
Jay says
I made this cake and it it the BEST, hands down. Everyone loved it. Didn’t even last one evening! I read your notes on how this was originally a rum cake. What would you add/change to make this a rum cake? Perhaps a coconut rum cake? Thanks so much for this amazing recipe. 🙂
Jen says
Thank you so much, Jay, I have been working my way through a backlog of comments and see yours somehow got lost in the mix! I am so glad you love this recipe! I’m sorry but I don’t bake with rum so I can’t help you! I would google coconut rum cake and see how much is used in other recipes. I appreciate you and hope you’re well!
Kalyn Williams says
I made this can and my family went crazy they
Loved it…Thank you!
I plan to make another one for Thanksgiving.
Jen says
Yassss! I love hearing that, thank you so much Kayln! Happy Thanksgiving!
Judith says
Hi! I just made this cake and it came out a very light yellow (similar to the color of the batter). Is that normal? The toothpicks came out clean when I checked the cake before removing it from the oven. Some of my “holes” went a bit deeper than intended. Is it possible the butter glaze that was drizzled in the holes has made the cake look uncooked? Will the color of the cake change once the glaze is spread on the outside? I apologize for all the questions. I really wanted to serve this for Thanksgiving. I followed the directions exactly so I’m not sure what went wrong.
Jen says
Hi Judith, don’t panic! Yes, the glaze will absolutely lighten cake. If it was cooked through when you tested it, it is still cooked through. Happy Thanksgiving!
Charnay Givens says
I messed up and put the butter and sugar in the bowl with the flour before mixing them together. Will it affect anything?
Jen says
Hi Charnay, I am assuming you beat the butter and sugar first and are just talking about not whisking the dry ingredients together first? Whisking the dry ingredients ensurers they get evenly distributed into the sugar/butter without over beating. It is definitely possible the cake will be just fine but it is also possible the baking soda/powder won’t be mixed in evenly – I’m afraid the only way to know for sure is to bake the cake. sorry!
Charnay says
I already whisked the dry ingredients. I just accidentally added all 4 of the butters in the dry mixture first. I then added the buttermilk mixture. Do you think it will turn out okay still? I also dont have anymore unsalted butter for the sauce.
Jen says
Hi Charnay, baking is a science so I’m afraid it won’t turn out if the ratio of fat to flour is off.
Shelley Rudnick says
This is my go to recipe for gifts and initially we tried it because we are originally from Connecticut but bought property in Kentucky and liked the name Kentucky Butter Cake. It is delicious, probably the most delicious cake there is and am so glad I found your recipe. I do make another half recipe of the glaze to brush the outside of the cake after removing from the pan and cooling it awhile. Really decadent!
Jen says
Thank you so much, Shelley, what a glowing review! I am so glad this is a repeat and your go-to cake! I have been working my way through a backlog of comments and see yours somehow got lost in the mix! I appreciate you and hope you’re well!
Katrina Stonoff says
Oh, wow. This is my new favorite cake. Unbelievably good. I brought it to a church potluck, and it was THE dish everyone raved about. Thanks!
Jen says
Thank you, Katrina, I am so happy the cake was a crowd favorite!! I’ve been working my way through a backlog of comments and see that yours somehow got lost in the mix! I am so happy the cake was a crowd favorite! Thanks for the awesome review, I hope all is well!
Shanno says
I have never left a comment on anyone’s website EVER, but I have to thank you! I am an excellent cook but a wretched baker. But we had an extraordinary Butter Cake dessert on vacation at a beautiful restaurant and I vowed to try to find a recipe. After tons of research I found your recipe with all the tips and tricks often left out of other recipes. Yours seemed to be written for non-bakers w information like make sure all ingredients are room temp, cream the sugar/butter for a specific length of time on a specific speed, how to make sure it didn’t stick, dont open the oven door until x minutes and then start checking to ensure it’s not overcooked. Not one of the other recipes had this info. I would have overcooked the cake, it would have been too dense and stuck to the pan if I’d followed any other recipe! I am now a legend in my house thanks to your recipe! IT IS DIVINE!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Jen says
Thank you, thank you for your awesome, humbling comment! Readers like you are why I put so much care into my recipes and I love hearing the big successes! Thank you for taking the time to comment and make my day! xoxox
Paula Lopossa says
I absolutely love this cake! I came across the recipe by accident while looking for a basic pound cake recipe. Intrigued I decided to try it and I am so very glad I did. You explained every thing so well and it felt like you were here helping me make it. Thank you so much!
Jen says
You are so welcome Paula! I’m so pleased you stumbled across this butter cake and decided to make it, it’s definitely one of our favs!
Linda says
I found this cake while looking for something different. Oh my goodness. I followed the recipe exactly. It was amazing. My husband loved it. I will definitely make this again. Wow!
Jen says
Thanks for taking the time to comment Linda! I’m thrilled this Kentucky Butter Cake was a delicious surprise!
Becky says
I am making this cake and a little confused about the holes. When I take it out it’s says poke holes in bottom, I assume that’s when you remove from pan. Then glaze the top. Is this correct
Jen says
Hi Becky – the holes should be poked on what will become the bottom of the cake (see the second photo in the post), or the exposed top part of the cake while it’s in the pan. Hope that helps!
Barbara says
I’m making this again this weekend. This cake is so worth the effort! This is one of those recipes that you don’t really want to share … 😉
Jen says
Thank you Barbara, I’m so happy it’s a repeat favorite!
Wendi L says
Sadly I must have underbaked mine because it fell apart when I turned it out, and it’s rather pale. I’M NOT GIVING UP THOUGH, because it tastes amazing! Has anyone ever baked this in a 9X13 pan?
Jen says
I’m so sorry Wendi! You definitely don’t want to underbake this cake because of all the liquid being poured into it. I hope take 2 is a smashing success! I have not personally tried baking it in a 9×13 pan but the one 9×13 recipe I see online says to bake at 350 F for about 45 minutes (for a 9×13” pan). Of course, I would check it for doneness before this just in case. Good luck!
Wendi L says
SUCCESS!! I decided to try 2 loaf pans, hoping that I could give these to friends for Christmas this year, , and they came out beautifully! Baked 50-55 mins. Thank you for the beautiful and detailed recipe Jen!
Jen says
YAY, thanks Wendi! What a great idea to make this cake in loaf pans for gifts – brilliant! Thanks for including the baking times, I’m sure many readers will find that helpful.
Heather says
I have a mini bundt cake pan. It has 8 bundt cakes. Will that work for this? Any idea on the baking time?
Jen says
What a cute idea Heather! I literally made this recipe last night (SO good!) and can’t think of any reason why it shouldn’t work in mini sizes. You may want to increase the butter sauce because there will be surface area of cake to cover. As far as baking, I can only guestimate – maybe check at 12 minutes and go from there. Good luck!
Dan says
Looks great! I am making this for Thanksgiving the night before. Any advice on warming it up prior to serving? I’m thinking about serving it warm with ice cream? Or do you recommend serving it at room temperature? Thanks!
Jen says
I LOVE this cake, it is my go-to so I’m excited you’re serving it for Thanksgiving! I recommend serving it warm. To warm, simply add sliced pieces to a plate, top with a slightly damp paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds or so. Happy Thanksgiving!
Jackie Sanders says
Could this recipe be cut in half and baked in a half sized bundt? Thank you.
Jen says
Hi Jackie, I haven’t personally tried it, but I think that should work, good luck!
Annie Calico says
It was delicious, but it stuck even after I buttered, sugared, and floured. I just scooped it into ice cream dishes, topped it with vanilla ice cream and drizzled more butter sauce on it. Nobody was the wiser.
Jen says
I’m sorry your cake stuck Annie, was the pan non-stick? I have made it countless times and never had a problem. Your saving serving idea though was brilliant!
Neesie says
I noticed your “buttermilk” is in a “dry” measuring cup. Do you use the same cup to measure all ingredients, liquid & dry? Or should I use liquid cups for the liquid ingredients? I cannot wait to try! I’m such a butter lover. Thank you!
Jen says
Hi Neesie, you can use whatever is easiest for you! Enjoy!
Terri Bridges says
Do you use the optional cinnamon?
Jen says
Yes, I love it!
Christine says
Found this recipe a while back , made it and the family went wild ! It is my go to cake now for everything! I’m fact I just made it for desert tonight ❤️ Thank you
Jen says
I love hearing that you’ve fallen in love with this cake! It is one of my all time favorites as well, thanks Christine!
Stephanie says
>>> THIS CAKE<<< is ahhhmazing! Took a break from the chocolate dessert tradition on Valentine’s Day and whipped this beauty up. This is a naughty cake with 4 sticks of butter, 3 cups sugar and 5 eggs, it’s definitely a recipe a cardiologist or gym trainer would not approve of, hahaha! It was so delicious served with some vanilla Ice cream and strawberries. I was slow and patient on glazing the cake after it was taken out of pan and it created the most crunchy, decadent outer crust of the cake like a glazed old fashioned donut. This recipe rocks, thank you!
Jen says
Yessss! This is one of my favorite cakes and the one I make most often because I always have all of the ingredients – so I LOVE hearing it was a hit at your house as well! I’m glad your patience paid off – it is all about that crust!
Kiah says
I don’t have the luxury of a stand mixer. Any recommendations?
Jen says
You can use a handheld electric mixer, enjoy!
Ginger says
I’m really excited to try this recipe! I’ve been craving pound cake variation. I wanted to make it into a rum butter cake, where exactly would I add the rum, is there a specific brand you would recommend and would I have to adjust anything?
Jen says
Hi Ginger, to add rum, you can either add 2 teaspoons rum or 1/2 teaspoon rum extract directly to the butter sauce after it has simmered (add with the vanilla), enjoy!
Lorraine says
I think this is now my new favourite cake to make.
My partner and I nearly ate an entire cake in one night that’s how good it was.
I have had some trouble with putting too much syrup in the cake which made it too soggy but now I know to refrain myself when it comes to that part.
I’m have one in the oven now, I might have this with the strawberry syrup ❤️
Jen says
Thanks so much Lorraine, I’m so pleased it’s a new favorite! I love your idea of using strawberry syrup – sounds divine!
Rachel says
This cake IS AMAZING !! I gifted about a quarter to neighbors ( who raved about it) froze about half and then we ate the rest for ourselves … I’m so glad I froze some because about 1.5 months later we’ve thawed it and it’s still amazing !!
Jen says
Thanks so much Rachel, I’m so pleased you loved it – and you’re so generous to share! Great to hear how well it freezes, thank you!
Sandy says
We really need more words like “butterier” in this world! LOVE LOVE LOVE!
Jen says
LOL! Agreed. It really is the little things 😉
Scott says
This is a family favorite. I’ve made this over 50 times in the last 40 years. Carefully wrapped in cling film, then placed back in the pan and wrapped again, they have made numerous FedEx trips to college.
Jen says
You have great taste ;)! You are a saint to send this cake to college, your kids are so blessed!
Carolyn says
I made this cake for my mom’s birthday and over half of it was gone! It was a huge hit. Buttery, delicious, and not overly sweet. Despite my best efforts, it did stick in a few places (very small), but I covered it with powdered sugar so you couldn’t tell!
This was a fantastic recipe, but all of your recipes are!
Jen says
I’m glad you were able to save the cake and that it was a hit! Thanks so much! And happy birthday to your Mom!
Mary Hayes says
Hi Jen!
This recipe is soooooo amazingly delicious and definitely better the 2-3 days after baked. The outer glaze sends this recipe over the top. It is now my favorite cake to bake. Quick question…. have you tried to make a chocolate version of this recipe? Thank you so very much!
Jen says
Thanks so much Mary, you have great taste as it’s one of my personal favs too! I have not tried a chocolate version only a lemon version (https://carlsbadcravings.com/lemon-pound-cake/) but I like you’re thinking 😉 I’ll add it to my list!
Anne Parker says
I made this recipe and it was delicious!! Especially the sugar in pan! My husband loved it! I’d like to try and make it lemony, do you think I could swap lemon extract and lemon juice and zest for the vanilla?
Jen says
I’m so pleased you loved it so much! I actually made a lemon version based on this recipe and it’s fabulous: https://carlsbadcravings.com/lemon-pound-cake/
Anne Parker says
Thank you so much! Will try this in next couple days! Today if I get home in time! I’m excited! Thank you, thank you!
Jen says
You’re so welcome, I’m excited for you to try it!
Anne M Parker says
OMG!! That lemon cake is delicious!! I used half vanilla and half lemon extract in the “poke”part, and probably used 5 TBL of lemon in the icing, because that’s what i had left from the lemons. Perfect lemon cake! Thank you so much!!
Jen says
YAY! I’m so pleased you loved it Anne, thank you!
Jasmine says
Hello Jen,
I’m so excited to try your recipe. I so appreciate the detailed information/description for every step of this delicious sounding cake. I follow you on FB, love your recipes.
Had a question about how much rum to use to make it a rum cake? I’ve tried other recipes and it did not come out as I would like. However, thought your cake is the perfect canvas for a Rum Cake. I know to use a dark rum, but do you have a preference?
Thank you so much in advance!
Jasmine
Jen says
Hi Jasmine! I have been working my way through a backlog of comments and see yours somehow got lost in the mix! I am so glad that you have loved the recipes! I haven’t tried making it into a rum cake, but you could experiment! Another suggestion would be to try making the cake as is and use a recipe for rum glaze. Best of luck, hope you enjoy!
Gretchen says
When making this Gluten Free, using Bob’s Red Mill GF flour, do you add the xanthan gum as recommended on the floor packaging?
Jen says
No, I use Bob’s Red Mill GF 1 to 1 baking flour and swap it evenly without any additions, works great!
Jackie says
Can this recipe be made in Nordic ware wreath can pan? If so, how much batter should be used?
Jen says
Hi Jackie, I am assuming it would work just fine. The amount of batter will depend on your particular pan. Good luck!
Taylor says
My store doesn’t keep whole-fat buttermilk on hand, only low-fat, should I use low-fat or make my own? Which would be better?
Jen says
Hi Taylor, I would make your own. Enjoy!
Pam says
Does your recipe already have the glaze doubled or do I need to double what you have written out?
Jen says
The recipe has written out the amount of glaze you’ll need for this recipe. Is that what you’re wondering?
Cody says
I used low fat and haven’t seen whole far for years where I am in Canada. Not sure what difference it would make but cake seemed great using the low fat type.
Jen says
Thanks so much for your input, Cody! I am so glad this worked and that you enjoyed it!
Barbara says
Do recipes for baked goods use convection or regular bake settings? I have never seen that called out in recipes. Thanks!
Jen says
Hi Barbara, it is always regular unless otherwise specified. Enjoy!
Carrie Miller says
Hi Jen, I’m going to make this on father’s day to go with eggs benedict (something sweet). Should I add the cinnamon? I will serve it with powdered sugar and fruit.
Jen says
Yum! If you like cinnamon, I would! It’s just a hint, not overpowering.
Roxanne Saxton says
Cake was great. For the first time in a while my Cake didn’t stick
Jen says
Yay! I am so glad you enjoyed this cake! Thanks, Roxanne!
Elaine Rosillo DeCoster says
One more question….I would like to add rum to this cake. Do you think 1/4-1/2 cup would be okay?
Thanks!
Jen says
Hi Elaine, I’m sorry but I don’t bake with rum so I can’t help you! I would google rum cake and see how much is used in other recipes.
Karen says
I made this cake for Thanksgiving (Canadian) it was easy to make and tasted terrific. I saved half of it and I will be enjoying it again tonight. ❤️
Jen says
Happy Thanksgiving! I’m so glad you loved it!
Yvonne says
What do you do with the 1/4 cup glaze?
Jen says
Rewarm the 1/4 cup of glaze (again, not letting it boil) and brush it evenly over the cake. Hope this helps!