Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake: A Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic π°β¨
There are cakes, and then there are cakes that make you feel like you’re tasting heaven on a plate. Kentucky butter caramel cake falls into that category. Itβs an indulgent, rich dessert that elevates the classic Kentucky butter caramel cake to new heights with the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. If you love desserts that combine creamy butter, gooey caramel, and a hint of sea salt, then this cake is the treat youβve been waiting for. π€€
Today, weβre not just talking about the ingredients or how to make this cake β weβre going deep into the details, giving you the full experience of what makes this cake so special. Plus, Iβll provide you with all the nutrition information you need to know about indulging in this treat responsibly. Ready? Letβs dive in!
The Origins of Kentucky butter caramel cake π
Before we can fully appreciate the magic of Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake, itβs important to understand the roots of its predecessor β the classic Kentucky Butter Cake. As the name suggests, the Kentucky Butter Cake hails from Kentucky, where the buttery, moist cake has been a beloved staple of Southern baking for decades. π§π°
It was originally crafted to showcase the beauty of butter, a key ingredient in Southern cooking, in a simple yet indulgent way. Kentucky Butter Cake is known for its dense texture, rich flavor, and sweet buttery glaze. Over the years, bakers and home cooks alike have added their own personal touches to the cake, whether by infusing different flavors or swapping ingredients. The Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is one of the most popular variations, combining the cake’s traditional buttery goodness with the perfect salted caramel twist. π
This new take brings something truly unique to the table. Imagine biting into a slice of cake, only to be hit with the luxurious warmth of salted caramel paired with that irresistible buttery flavor. Itβs pure bliss! π
Why Kentucky butter caramel cake? The Sweet and Salty Magic β¨
What is it about salted caramel that makes it so irresistible? π€ The beauty of salted caramel lies in the contrast between its sweetness and the savory pop of sea salt. This combination creates a complex flavor profile that hits all the right notes. The sweetness of caramel is balanced by the salt, preventing the dessert from becoming overwhelmingly sweet. As a result, the cake feels rich and indulgent, yet surprisingly balanced.
The salted caramel topping also adds a textural element to the cake, providing a gooey, luxurious layer on top of the fluffy, moist cake. Itβs this perfect balance that takes the classic Kentucky Butter Cake and transforms it into something truly spectacular. Every bite is a journey of flavor, texture, and satisfaction. π
Ingredients Youβll Need to Make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake πͺ
Before you start, itβs important to gather the right ingredients. Fortunately, these are all items you can easily find at your local grocery store. Hereβs a breakdown of the Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake ingredients, ensuring youβre fully prepared to bake your cake to perfection:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (πΎ)
- 2 tsp baking powder (for that light, fluffy texture)
- 1/2 tsp salt (a little extra salt enhances the flavor)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened π§
- 2 cups granulated sugar (for that sweet base)
- 4 large eggs π₯
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract π¨
- 1 cup whole milk π₯
For the Salted Caramel Glaze:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (yes, more butter β itβs what makes this cake amazing!) π§
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed) π
- 1/4 cup heavy cream π§΄
- 1 tsp vanilla extract π¨
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste, depending on how salty you like it)
![Kentucky butter caramel cake Recipe: A Sweet Southern Delight](https://camirecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/a-realistic-image-of-a-kitchen-countertop-with-all-FKrNDOPlSl-q8Svvh1B3Lw-KFUMRk4eTiGoLGZFyxrqAA.webp)
This cake is truly the definition of indulgence, with every ingredient serving to create the most luxurious texture and flavor.
How to Make Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake π°
Now that you know what goes into this delicious cake, letβs get to work! Baking this cake is simple and straightforward β perfect for bakers of all levels. Hereβs your step-by-step guide to making Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake from start to finish.
Step 1: Preparing Your Cake Pan
First things first β preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). π While itβs heating up, grease and flour your 10-inch Bundt pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. This is essential to getting that perfect, golden-brown exterior. For an extra non-stick coating, you can also use a cake release spray.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate, larger bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take around 3-5 minutes β patience is key here. π
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse that sweet, aromatic flavor. π¨
Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and the milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Gradually add both to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Be sure not to overmix, or the texture might suffer. π§βπ³
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. π
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center β if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Salted Caramel Glaze
While your cake is cooling, it’s time to make the salted caramel glaze that will take this cake to another level of decadence. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once itβs melted, add the brown sugar and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture has thickened slightly.
Once your caramel sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sea salt, stirring until the mixture is smooth and glossy. π₯
Step 5: Glaze the Cake
Once your cake is completely cooled, drizzle the salted caramel glaze generously over the top, letting it drip down the sides. If you have leftover glaze, you can always drizzle more on each individual slice later for that extra indulgence. π―
![Kentucky butter caramel cake Recipe: A Sweet Southern Delight](https://camirecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/a-series-of-step-by-step-images-of-making-salted-c-G99ZIZLHT2mscydND5-2ug-4zpFsTRTSgG1MYkLi8jqxQ.webp)
Serving Tips & Pairing Suggestions π΄
This cake is perfect for any occasion β whether itβs a family gathering, birthday, or just a special treat for yourself. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence, or enjoy it with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate comfort food experience. βπ¦
You could even add a dollop of whipped cream on top or garnish with caramelized pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch. π°
Nutrition Information: Indulging Responsibly π½οΈ
While this Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is undeniably delicious, itβs also rich and indulgent. Letβs take a look at the approximate nutrition information per slice:
Per Serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 500-600 kcal
- Fat: 28g (of which 16g is saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 50g
- Protein: 4g
As you can see, this cake is a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. Itβs perfect for special occasions, but donβt forget to balance it out with healthier choices during the rest of your day. πͺπ
Storing Your Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake π°
If you happen to have leftovers (though itβs unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore that fresh-baked warmth. π§
Why You Should Make This Cake Today
This Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a true masterpiece of baking. It combines everything you love about Southern desserts β butter, sugar, and indulgent flavors β with the sophistication of salted caramel. Itβs sure to be a hit at any event and is an absolute must-try for cake lovers. π
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and make this cake today! You wonβt regret it. π
![Kentucky butter caramel cake Recipe: A Sweet Southern Delight](https://camirecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/a-cozy-setting-with-soft-lighting-a-beautifully-ba-SmncMN4ISxeXk4bN6OLvHg-JcI9HPY4S2qSvPeVRNiDQg.webp)
Internal Linking Suggestions π
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Now youβre all set to bake a cake that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Enjoy every slice of this delicious Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake! π°π
Print![Kentucky butter caramel cake Recipe: A Sweet Southern Delight](https://camirecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/a-cozy-setting-with-soft-lighting-a-beautifully-ba-SmncMN4ISxeXk4bN6OLvHg-JcI9HPY4S2qSvPeVRNiDQg-150x150.webp)
Kentucky butter caramel cake : A Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic π°β¨
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes β 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 servings (depending on slice size) 1x
Description
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the rich and buttery flavors of a classic Kentucky Butter Cake with a luscious, gooey salted caramel glaze. The cake is moist, dense, and melts in your mouth, while the salted caramel adds a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. Ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or special occasions, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with the warm, gooey caramel glaze makes each bite pure heaven. π°β¨
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour πΎ
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened π§
- 2 cups granulated sugar π¬
- 4 large eggs π₯
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract π¨
- 1 cup whole milk π₯
For the Salted Caramel Glaze:
- 1 cup unsalted butter π§
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed) π
- 1/4 cup heavy cream π§΄
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract π¨
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt (or to taste) π
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan to ensure the cake doesnβt stick. For an extra non-stick coating, you can also use a cake release spray.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes). Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Alternating between the dry ingredients and the milk, add both to the butter-sugar mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined β be careful not to overmix to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Salted Caramel Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the salted caramel glaze. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the caramel thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the salted caramel glaze over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. You can use all the glaze, or save some to drizzle on individual slices later for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure to bring the butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before using them in your cake batter for the best results.
- Cake Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Caramel Tips: If the caramel glaze is too thick, you can add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream to loosen it up. If itβs too thin, simmer it a bit longer before pouring over the cake.
- Make-Ahead: You can bake the cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature for a day or two. Then, prepare the glaze fresh before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 550-600 kcal
- Sugar: 55g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 105mg