To make the Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake, you’ll first prepare the cake itself, followed by the caramel butter drizzle, and optionally, a homemade salted caramel topping. Here’s how you can make this indulgent dessert:
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar (skip if using buttermilk)
- 1 cup caramel-flavored coffee creamer (or buttermilk)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
For the Caramel Butter Drizzle:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons caramel-flavored coffee creamer
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Homemade Salted Caramel Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 3½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or coat with baking spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cream of tartar (if not using buttermilk).
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the caramel-flavored coffee creamer (or buttermilk) and vanilla extract.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the flour mixture and the coffee creamer mixture (or buttermilk), beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined after each addition, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Caramel Butter Drizzle
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and caramel-flavored coffee creamer.
- Bring to a Boil: Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Drizzle: While the cake is still warm, poke holes in the top with a skewer or fork. Pour the caramel butter drizzle evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
3. Optional: Make the Homemade Salted Caramel Topping
- Prepare Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook to Amber Color: Let the mixture boil without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally until it turns an amber color, about 6-7 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Add Cream and Butter: Remove from heat and carefully add the heavy cream and butter (be cautious as it may splatter). Stir until smooth.
- Add Salt: Stir in the kosher or sea salt until fully incorporated. Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cake has cooled and the drizzle or caramel topping has been added, slice and serve this decadent Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake. The combination of buttery cake, sweet caramel drizzle, and optional salted caramel topping makes for a truly indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Bundt Pan Preparation: Properly grease and flour your bundt pan or use baking spray with flour to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Even Mixing: Mix the cake batter just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense cake.
- Cooling and Drizzling: Let the cake cool slightly before adding the caramel butter drizzle or salted caramel topping to ensure it absorbs evenly.
Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and textures into one irresistible dessert. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress with its buttery richness and decadent caramel accents. Enjoy each slice with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect ending to any meal.
