Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the spirit of Southern comfort food. The cake is moist, buttery, and richly aromatic, with a heavenly salted caramel glaze that adds an irresistible touch of decadence. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also a fantastic way to impress family and friends, making it a perfect choice for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy night in. The combination of warm cake and luxurious caramel sauce creates a nostalgic experience, reminiscent of cherished gatherings where laughter and deliciousness filled the air. The Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a must-try for anyone looking to create something extraordinary without complicated steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is an absolute gem in the world of baking. One of its standout features is its simplicity; the preparation is straightforward, allowing both novice and seasoned bakers to achieve success. The minimal ingredients come together to create a delectable dessert that is sure to please a crowd, transforming ordinary moments into celebrations. Moreover, the blend of sweet and salty flavors keeps every bite exciting, while the moist texture makes it incredibly comforting. You’ll find that this cake is not just about taste; it also offers the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious with very little fuss.
Ingredients
To create your very own Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 250 g all-purpose flour, sifted for a light, airy texture
- 15 ml baking powder, the secret to a fluffy rise
- 5 g fine salt, bringing balance to sweetness
- 227 g unsalted butter, room temperature, for a rich, creamy base
- 400 g granulated sugar, adding a perfect sweetness
- 4 large eggs, adding body and structure
- 15 ml vanilla extract, infusing warmth and depth
- 240 ml buttermilk, ensuring that tenderness with a subtle tang
- 220 g brown sugar, adding a hint of caramel richness
- 113 g unsalted butter, used in the glaze for a smooth finish
- 60 ml heavy cream, lending a luscious mouthfeel
- 5 g sea salt, enhancing that delightful salted caramel aspect
- Plus extra for garnish, to finish it off and impress
Together, these ingredients create a cake that is not just a treat but an experience—a luscious adventure for your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Generously grease a 25 cm bundt pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine salt, then set aside. This blend creates the foundation for a lighter cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar until pale and aerated. This step is crucial for a fluffy texture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one by one, blending thoroughly after each addition to ensure a well-integrated mixture. Follow this by incorporating the vanilla extract until fully combined, providing a comforting aroma.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredient mix and the buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry mix. Be gentle while mixing to achieve a cohesive batter without overworking that gluten.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the surface and bake in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Glaze
For the salted caramel glaze, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Step 8: Drizzle and Garnish
Once the cake is completely cool, use a skewer to pierce holes across the surface, allowing the glaze to seep in. Drizzle the warm salted caramel glaze generously over the cake, ensuring it soaks through. Finish with a sprinkle of extra sea salt to accentuate that sweet and savory balance.
Tips & Tricks
- For added depth of flavor, consider using browned butter instead of regular unsalted butter in the cake batter.
- If you love a hint of spice, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mix.
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature for the best experience. If you have leftovers, gently reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds prior to serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream to amplify its comforting nature. Serve it at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or afternoon tea, and watch it disappear quickly. It also pairs wonderfully with a rich cup of coffee or tea, providing a perfect ending to any meal.
Nutritional Information
One slice of Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the size of the slice. It features a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, providing energy for an afternoon pick-me-up. As with all treats, balance is key, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.
Storing Tips & Variations
Store any leftover Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them up slightly before serving. As for variations, feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or chocolate chips incorporated into the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on the chance to bake this amazing Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake! It’s a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for any occasion. Try it today and share your experience with friends and family; it’s bound to become a treasured recipe in your collection.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly before using.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature and heat it gently before serving.
3. How can I enhance the salted caramel flavor?
To boost the salted caramel flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of bourbon or an extra pinch of sea salt to the glaze before drizzling it over the cake.
4. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
5. What can I serve with this cake for a complete dessert experience?
Pairing the cake with fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Additionally, a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top or a sprinkle of toasted nuts will elevate the dessert even further.
