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The BEST Kentucky Butter Cake EVER!

Recipe by All Wings Everything

A moist, buttery bundt cake topped with a sweet vanilla‑cinnamon butter glaze. This classic Southern treat is made from scratch with flour, butter, eggs, and buttermilk, then soaked with a rich butter sauce for extra flavor.

MediumSouthern United StatesServes 12

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Source Video
33m
Prep
1h
Cook
11m
Cleanup
1h 44m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.56
Total cost
$0.55
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Greasing and flouring the bundt pan to ensure clean release.
  • Alternating flour and buttermilk additions to avoid over‑mixing.
  • Poking holes in the baked cake before glazing so the butter sauce penetrates.
  • Monitoring bake time with a toothpick test to prevent over‑baking.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and hot glaze with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Do not let the glaze come to a rolling boil; it can scorch and become grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Kentucky Butter Cake in Southern United States cuisine?

A

Kentucky Butter Cake originated in the Appalachian region and became popular throughout the South as a simple, buttery pound‑cake style dessert. It is traditionally served at family gatherings, church potlucks, and holiday celebrations, embodying the Southern love of rich, comforting sweets.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Kentucky Butter Cake in Southern United States cooking?

A

Some Southern cooks add a splash of bourbon or rum to the glaze, while others fold in chopped pecans or raisins into the batter. In Kentucky, a thin caramel‑like butter glaze is typical, whereas in neighboring states a cream cheese frosting may be used.

cultural
Q

How is Kentucky Butter Cake traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

It is usually served warm or at room temperature, sliced and drizzled with the buttery glaze. A popular accompaniment is a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, especially during summer gatherings.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Kentucky Butter Cake traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

The cake is a staple at church socials, family reunions, birthday parties, and holiday meals such as Thanksgiving and Christmas in the South. Its simple ingredients make it a go‑to dessert for large crowds.

cultural
Q

What makes Kentucky Butter Cake special or unique in Southern United States cuisine?

A

The combination of a dense, buttery crumb with a sweet, vanilla‑cinnamon glaze that soaks into the cake creates a moist texture unlike typical pound cakes. The glaze’s ability to infuse the interior sets it apart from other Southern cakes.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Kentucky Butter Cake at home?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, which makes the cake tough, and under‑greasing the bundt pan, which can cause the cake to stick. Also, failing to poke holes before glazing prevents the sauce from soaking fully.

technical
Q

Why does this Kentucky Butter Cake recipe use a low oven temperature of 325°F instead of a higher temperature?

A

Baking at 325°F allows the cake to rise slowly, giving it a tender crumb and preventing the edges from drying out before the center is cooked. A higher temperature would create a crust too quickly and could leave the interior undercooked.

technical
Q

Can I make Kentucky Butter Cake ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes before adding the glaze, or add the glaze while the cake is still warm and store it refrigerated.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Kentucky Butter Cake is done baking?

A

The top should be a deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake should spring back lightly when pressed on the edges of the pan.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel All Wings Everything specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel All Wings Everything focuses on approachable, comfort‑food recipes with a Southern flair, often featuring step‑by‑step tutorials, kitchen gadget reviews, and family‑style meals.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel All Wings Everything's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

All Wings Everything emphasizes home‑cooked, no‑mix‑box recipes using everyday ingredients and often highlights the use of affordable kitchen tools like stand mixers, making classic Southern dishes accessible to beginner cooks.

channel

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