Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug from Grandma while simultaneously making your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine biting into a slice of moist, buttery cake drizzled with luscious salted caramel, its sweet and salty notes dancing on your tongue like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show. This cake isn’t just an indulgent treat; it’s an experience—perfect for everything from family gatherings to cozy nights in when you need a little pick-me-up.

Jump to:
- Ingredients for Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake
- How to Make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What is Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake?
- How do I store Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake?
- Can I make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake ahead of time?
- What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
- Conclusion for Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake :
- 📖 Recipe Card
There’s something magical about baking this Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake that transports me back to my childhood kitchen, where flour clouds floated and laughter echoed. It’s the star of many family celebrations, and every time I make it, I can’t help but smile as I remember my Aunt Bessie sneakily licking the bowl, claiming it was “quality control.” Get ready to dive into this recipe that promises not only mouthwatering flavors but also a sprinkle of nostalgia.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this cake perfect for any occasion, even if you’re a baking novice.
- Its rich flavor profile combines butteriness with hints of salt and sweetness, creating an irresistible treat.
- Visually, the golden-brown crust and glossy caramel drizzle make it a showstopper on any dessert table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as dessert or even breakfast—because who doesn’t want cake for breakfast?
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it forms the base of your cake.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake beautifully; brown sugar adds depth and moisture.
Baking Powder: Ensure your cake rises perfectly; check the expiration date for best results.
Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip this step!
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels; let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
Eggs: Use large eggs for binding and moisture; they help create that tender crumb we love.
Vanilla Extract: Choose pure vanilla extract for a richer flavor; it’s worth the splurge!
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess and richness to the batter; feel free to use alternatives like almond milk if preferred.
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
Granulated Sugar: For creating that beautiful caramel color; keep an eye on it while melting!
Butter: Adds creaminess and depth; use unsalted for better control over flavor.
Heavy Cream: Helps achieve that silky smooth sauce texture; warm it slightly before adding.
Sea Salt: A few pinches enhance that salted caramel sensation; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray and dust it lightly with flour. This prevents sticking—nobody wants their beautiful cake stuck in the pan!
Step 2: Prepare Your Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Next, add eggs one at a time into your butter mixture. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet ingredients alternating with milk until fully combined.
Step 4: Bake That Beauty
Pour your batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 5: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce
While your cake is baking, prepare your salted caramel sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt granulated sugar until it turns amber-colored (be careful not to burn!). Add butter followed by heavy cream while stirring constantly until smooth. Sprinkle sea salt into your sauce—taste test if you dare!
Step 6: Final Touches
Once cooled slightly, invert your cake onto a serving plate. Drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce while still warm so it seeps into every crevice—a glorious sight! Serve slices warm or at room temperature.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—just don’t forget to guard those leftovers!
You Must Know
- This delightful Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is not just a treat; it’s a showstopper.
- It combines rich flavors and moist textures, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Whether you serve it at a gathering or keep it all to yourself, it’s sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the salted caramel sauce, letting it cool while you mix the cake batter. Bake the cake until golden brown, then pour the warm caramel over it right before serving for an indulgent finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor twist. You can also add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that gooey goodness again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect salted caramel, make sure not to stir while cooking; this prevents sugar from crystallizing.
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- If your caramel hardens, gently reheat it to restore its silky consistency.
It reminds me of the time I made this cake for my friend’s birthday party. Everyone devoured it within minutes, and I was left with nothing but crumbs and a feeling of triumph!
FAQs :
What is Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake?
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a moist and rich dessert that combines buttery cake with a delicious salted caramel sauce. This cake features a unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. The cake is often baked in a bundt pan, allowing it to develop a beautiful shape and an even distribution of the luscious caramel topping. It’s perfect for celebrations or as a comforting dessert to enjoy at home.
How do I store Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake?
To keep your Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it, where it will last about a week. For even longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw them in the fridge before serving to maintain their moist texture.
Can I make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake ahead of time. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day, making it an ideal choice for preparing in advance. Bake the cake and let it cool completely before drizzling the salted caramel sauce on top. Once assembled, store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just give it some time to come to room temperature before enjoying!
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you want to substitute butter in your Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake recipe, consider using coconut oil or plant-based margarine for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives provide moisture and flavor similar to traditional butter. You can also use applesauce or mashed bananas to replace some of the fat content while adding natural sweetness. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the taste slightly, but they can still yield delicious results.
Conclusion for Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake :
Creating this Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a rewarding experience that brings decadent flavors together in one delightful dessert. With its rich buttery cake paired with sweet and salty caramel sauce, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Remember to store properly to maintain freshness and enjoy making this delicious treat ahead of special occasions. Whether served at gatherings or as a personal indulgence, this cake will leave everyone craving more!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a decadent dessert that combines moist, buttery cake with a rich salted caramel sauce. Each slice offers a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its golden-brown crust and glossy drizzle, this cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel sauce)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for caramel sauce)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for caramel sauce)
- 1 tsp sea salt (for caramel sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing in vanilla. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients alternating with milk.
- Pour batter into the bundt pan and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare the salted caramel sauce by melting sugar until amber, then stir in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Add sea salt.
- Let the cake cool slightly before inverting onto a plate and drizzling with warm caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg