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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.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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