Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake recipe is a rich, moist dessert made in a bundt pan. My baking experience with this cake has been remarkable, creating layers of buttery texture soaked with bourbon and vanilla flavors.
I have made this kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe several times, experimenting slightly with ingredients while keeping the classic southern style.
I prepared kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe in a bakery style once, and then added my own touch by adjusting the bourbon glaze for deeper flavor.
I will now show step-by-step how to make this kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe, sharing tips and techniques that make it truly delicious.
About This Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake Recipe
Kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe has a rich, tender crumb that melts in the mouth, carrying a buttery sweetness balanced by a warm hint of bourbon.
The cake is moist, dense yet soft, and the buttermilk adds a subtle tang that enhances the depth of flavor. The bourbon butter glaze seeps into the cake, leaving a glossy, sweet coating that complements the tender texture.
Vanilla notes shine through, rounding out the flavor. The overall taste is indulgent but not cloying, leaving a lingering warmth from the bourbon that makes each slice comforting and memorable.
How To Prepare Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake Recipe?
To make this kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe perfectly, I’ll guide you through each step with clear instructions and tips. I’ve included a list of kitchen tools that make the process easier, though not all are required.
Even if you use only the basics, you’ll end up with a moist, flavorful cake infused with bourbon and buttery goodness.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southern
Yield: 10 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Small saucepan
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Bourbon Butter Glaze:
- ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 10-inch bundt pan by greasing and flouring it thoroughly so the cake doesn’t stick. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt, and then set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about three to four minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon whiskey until fully combined.
3. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently; just until everything is combined over mixing can make the cake tough. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. While the cake is baking, make the bourbon butter glaze by combining butter, bourbon, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves into a smooth glaze, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Once the cake comes out of the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. While the cake is still warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it soak in for maximum flavor and moisture. Serve and enjoy!
Notes: For an extra touch of flavor, you can brush the cake with a little additional bourbon after glazing. Make sure the cake is slightly warm when pouring the glaze so it absorbs well.
Nutrition Facts Of Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Sugars | 40 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
Why My Recipe Works
My Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake recipe works because it balances the richness of butter and sugar with the slight tang of buttermilk, creating a moist, tender crumb that absorbs the bourbon glaze perfectly.
Creaming the butter and sugar first incorporates air, giving the cake lightness, while alternating dry ingredients with buttermilk prevents over mixing and keeps the texture soft.
The warm bourbon butter glaze seeps into the cake while it’s still hot, enhancing flavor and moisture. Small adjustments, like the amount of bourbon or sugar in the glaze, make the recipe adaptable while ensuring consistent, delicious results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake recipe because it delivers a tender, moist crumb that soaks up the rich bourbon butter glaze, giving every bite a deep, flavorful sweetness.
The buttery texture pairs perfectly with the warm, slightly boozy glaze, creating a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy. It works beautifully for gatherings, special occasions, or simply treating yourself at home.
The kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe allows small personal touches, like adjusting the bourbon or sweetness, while still producing a bakery-quality cake. The aroma while baking fills the kitchen with a comforting, inviting scent.
Our Favorite Ways To Serve It Up
Our favorite ways to serve kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe include slicing it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream on the side. Drizzling extra bourbon butter glaze over each slice adds an indulgent touch.
It also pairs beautifully with fresh berries or caramelized nuts for added texture and flavor. For a special presentation, we serve it on a decorative cake stand, letting the glaze drip down the sides.
This kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe works well for brunch, holiday gatherings, or casual desserts, inviting everyone to enjoy its rich, buttery, and slightly boozy flavor.
Essential Health Benefits
Kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe provides energy from carbohydrates and fats, giving a quick source of fuel for the body. Eggs supply protein and essential amino acids, while butter and buttermilk contribute small amounts of calcium and vitamin A.
The cake can satisfy sweet cravings in moderation, helping with portion-controlled enjoyment. Bourbon adds flavor without significant calories when used in baking.
While it is an indulgent dessert, enjoying a slice mindfully can be part of a balanced approach to eating, offering both sensory satisfaction and a moment of culinary enjoyment without overconsumption.
My Tips For Success!
1. Make sure the butter is fully softened before creaming with sugar. This helps create a light, fluffy batter.
2. Measure flour carefully and avoid packing it into the cup. Spoon it in and level with a knife for accurate results.
3. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk gradually, starting and ending with the dry mix. This keeps the cake tender.
4. Do not over mix the batter once the flour is added; gentle folding prevents a dense cake.
5. Grease and flour the bundt pan thoroughly, paying attention to all the crevices so the cake releases easily.
6. Pour the bourbon butter glaze over the cake while it is still warm so it absorbs fully and adds maximum flavor.
How To Make With More Delicious
✔ Extra Bourbon Soak: Warm an additional 2 tablespoons of bourbon and brush it lightly over the cake after glazing to intensify the rich flavor.
✔ Brown Butter: Use browned butter instead of regular butter in the batter to add a nutty, caramel-like depth that enhances the overall taste.
✔ Vanilla Bean Upgrade: Replace vanilla extract with scraped vanilla bean for a more aromatic and flavorful cake.
✔ Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze for added texture and a complementary nutty flavor.
✔ Fruit Infusion: Serve slices with fresh berries or a berry compote to contrast the sweetness and add a bright, fresh element.
How To Store The Finished Cake
Store the finished kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
If you need to keep kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For extended storage, the cake can be frozen: wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving and, if desired, gently warm slices to refresh the bourbon butter glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this cake without bourbon?
Yes, you can replace bourbon with an equal amount of milk, apple juice, or water for flavor without alcohol, though the classic depth will be slightly milder.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake stays fresh for 2–3 days. Refrigerated, it lasts up to a week.
Can I use a different pan instead of a bundt pan?
Yes, a tube pan, loaf pan, or round cake pans can be used, but baking times may vary slightly.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the bourbon butter glaze can be made in advance and gently reheated before pouring over the warm cake.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
This kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe is a recipe everyone enjoys, bringing rich, buttery flavor with a warm touch of bourbon that makes each slice memorable.
I make this kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe often for serving friends and family, and every time it is a hit. The texture stays moist, and the glaze adds a sweet, indulgent finish that keeps everyone coming back for more.
I love sharing my easy method, showing how simple steps create such a delicious result. I hope you try making this kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe and enjoy it as much as I do.
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Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Small saucepan
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Bourbon Butter Glaze:
- ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 10-inch bundt pan by greasing and flouring it thoroughly so the cake doesn’t stick. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt, and then set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about three to four minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon whiskey until fully combined.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently; just until everything is combined over mixing can make the cake tough. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, make the bourbon butter glaze by combining butter, bourbon, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves into a smooth glaze, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Once the cake comes out of the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. While the cake is still warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it soak in for maximum flavor and moisture. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake Recipe
Calories: 520 kcal | Fat: 26 g | Saturated Fat: 16 g | Carbohydrates: 65 g | Sugars: 40 g | Protein: 5 g ÂHi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.