Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake – A Moist, Buttery Delight

If you’re looking for a cake that’s moist, rich, and absolutely irresistible, this Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is the one! Infused with a buttery vanilla flavor and soaked in a luscious caramel sauce, this decadent Bundt cake melts in your mouth with every bite.

This classic Southern cake has been a beloved dessert for generations, and for good reason—it’s simple to make yet delivers indulgent flavors that rival any bakery-style treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a potluck, or just craving a comforting homemade dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Moist & Buttery – The cake is soaked in a rich butter sauce, making it ultra-tender.
Easy to Make – No fancy ingredients or techniques—just mix, bake, and pour the sauce!
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, birthdays, or an everyday treat.
Even Better the Next Day – The flavors intensify as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious!

Ingredients & Their Role

For the Cake:

3 cups (13 ½ oz) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and a soft crumb.
2 cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder & ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
1 cup buttermilk – Adds a subtle tang and keeps the cake ultra-moist.
1 cup butter (room temperature) – The star ingredient for a rich, buttery taste.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
4 large eggs – Provide structure and a tender texture.

For the Butter Sauce:

¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the sauce and creates a caramel-like effect.
⅓ cup butter – Adds richness and buttery flavor.
3 tablespoons water – Helps dissolve the sugar.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven & Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F.
Generously grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan or 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
Add the buttermilk, butter, vanilla, and eggs.
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat on low speed until moistened.
Increase to medium speed and beat for about 3 minutes until smooth.

3. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Make the Butter Sauce

While the cake is baking, prepare the buttery caramel sauce:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine ¾ cup sugar, ⅓ cup butter, 3 tablespoons water, and 2 teaspoons vanilla.
- Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Do not boil—just heat until everything is combined.

5. Soak the Cake in the Butter Sauce

Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven but leave it in the pan.
Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake, allowing the sauce to soak in.
Slowly pour the hot butter sauce over the warm cake, letting it absorb.

6. Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
Serve warm or at room temperature—it tastes even better the next day!

Pro Tips for the Best Butter Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
Don’t Skip the Sauce – It’s what makes this cake so moist and flavorful!
Let the Cake Rest Before Removing – This prevents it from breaking apart.
Cover While Storing – The cake stays moist for days if kept in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

With a Scoop of Ice Cream – Vanilla or butter pecan pairs beautifully!
Drizzle with Extra Caramel Sauce – For an extra indulgent treat.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea – Perfect for a cozy afternoon dessert.
Top with Fresh Berries – A fresh contrast to the rich buttery cake.

Why You Need to Try This Cake

This Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is the ultimate moist, buttery, and rich dessert that’s easy to make but tastes like it came from a bakery. With its deep caramel flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s sure to be a new favorite in your home.

Save this recipe & share it with your friends! Let me know how it turns out in the comments!