Introduction
Welcome, sweet friends! You’re in for a treat with this Southern Charm Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake. This moist, buttery cake brings together the perfect harmony of flavors with each bite. Drenched in a luscious salted caramel sauce and topped with a creamy glaze, it’s a dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake will fill your home with delightful aromas and warm smiles!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 3 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 12-cup Bundt pan and dust it with flour, tapping out the excess to ensure a perfect release.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step adds a beautiful airiness to your cake.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract and lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to create your dry mix.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until everything is combined to keep the cake tender.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared Bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely, so it retains its beautiful shape.
- After the cake has cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl to create a smooth glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, followed by a generous drizzle of the salted caramel sauce for that dreamy finish.
- Top everything off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that adds just the right touch of contrast to the sweetness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of indulgence, feel free to incorporate chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. Make sure to serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, take your time to ensure they are well combined; this process is essential for a light and airy cake. Properly greasing and flouring your Bundt pan is crucial to prevent sticking and to ensure a flawless release. Lastly, be mindful of overmixing once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a denser cake.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container at room temperature, and glaze it right before serving.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? You can make your own buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Conclusion
This Southern Charm Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a delightful masterpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake will not disappoint. So, gather your ingredients, turn on some music, and enjoy the joyful experience of baking something truly special!