Introduction
Indulge in a delightfully rich and moist cake that marries the flavors of butter, vanilla, and salted caramel. The Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a delectable dessert that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings while serving as a showstopper for any gathering. From its tender crumb to the luscious caramel topping, this cake is a true labor of love that will surely impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Cake:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 4 large eggs
For the Butter Sauce:
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons water
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Topping:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ¼ cup water
– ¾ cup heavy cream
– 3½ tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55 to 65 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 12 to 14 slices
Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
– Generously grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan, ensuring all crevices are well-coated to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
– In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
– In another bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Mix in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures:
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
– Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Bake the Cake:
– Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top.
– Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Butter Sauce:
– While the cake is baking, combine the sugar, butter, water, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan over medium heat.
– Stir until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Do not let the mixture boil.
Soak the Cake:
– Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack.
– While still in the pan, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the cake.
– Slowly pour the warm butter sauce over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
– Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate.
Prepare the Salted Caramel Topping:
– In a deep saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
– Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color, about 6-8 minutes.
– Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream (the mixture will bubble vigorously).
– Stir in the butter and sea salt until smooth.
– Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling over the cooled cake.
Serve:
– Slice the cake and serve.
– Optional: Sprinkle additional sea salt over the caramel for extra flavor.
Notes
Pan Preparation:
– Ensure your Bundt pan is thoroughly greased and floured to prevent the cake from sticking.
Ingredient Temperature:
– It is best if the butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
Mixing Technique:
– Do not overmix the batter; mix just until combined to maintain a tender cake texture.
Storage:
– Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for a day or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating:
– If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving for a fresh taste.
Cook techniques
Prepping the Bundt Pan
Generously grease and flour the bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Make sure all crevices are coated.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a large bowl. Whisk until thoroughly mixed to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
Creaming Butter and Eggs
Beat softened butter until light and fluffy, then add eggs one by one, ensuring to fully incorporate each egg before the next addition for optimal air incorporation.
Combining Ingredients
Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.
Baking the Cake
Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55 to 65 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
Preparing the Butter Sauce
In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, water, and vanilla over medium heat until melted and dissolved, stirring gently.
Soaking the Cake
Poke holes in the baked cake while it’s still warm and in the pan. Pour the warm butter sauce over it carefully, allowing it to soak in before cooling.
Making Salted Caramel
Combine sugar and water in a deep saucepan and let it boil without stirring. Once it turns amber, whisk in heavy cream, butter, and salt quickly and carefully.
Drizzling Caramel
After the caramel has cooled slightly, drizzle it over the cooled cake for a beautiful finish.
FAQ
Can I substitute buttermilk in the recipe?
Yes, you can use a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
What can I use instead of a Bundt pan?
If you don’t have a Bundt pan, you can use a regular round cake pan but may need to adjust baking time.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I make the salted caramel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salted caramel in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before use.
Conclusion
This Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a delightful combination of rich flavors and moist texture. The buttery cake drenched in a warm butter sauce, topped with a luscious salted caramel, creates a delicious treat perfect for any occasion. Its beautiful presentation and indulgent taste are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Ganache Cake
Consider making a rich chocolate ganache cake by incorporating cocoa powder into the flour mixture and topping it with a smooth chocolate ganache.
Lemon Drizzle Cake
For a refreshing twist, replace the vanilla extract with lemon zest and juice in the batter and drizzle a sweet lemon glaze on top instead of caramel.
Chai Spice Cake
Introduce warm spices by adding chai spice mix to your dry ingredients and pair it with a spiced butter sauce for a fragrant alternative.
Peanut Butter Swirl Cake
Mix in creamy peanut butter to the cake batter and create a peanut butter sauce to drizzle on top along with the salted caramel for a delightful peanut butter twist.
Berry Swirl Cake
Add fresh or frozen berries to the cake batter for burst of fruity flavor and finish with a simple berry compote for a light, summery dessert option.
