Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake Recipe

If you love the rich, buttery taste of a classic butter cake enhanced with a luscious, gooey caramel swirl and just a hint of sea salt, then you are going to absolutely fall head over heels for this Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake. This dessert is the perfect marriage of comforting Southern tradition and indulgent, modern flavor. Imagine biting into a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth, all while enjoying the deep, sweet notes of salted caramel that make this cake simply unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just craving a heavenly slice of cake, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is the first step toward baking your own Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the rich buttery base to adding that irresistible caramel flavor and a hint of saltiness that elevates the whole experience.

• 1 cup (225g) softened butter: This is the backbone of the cake, lending moisture and that signature buttery richness.
• 1 ½ cups (300g) sugar: Sweetness balances out the butter, ensuring every bite is perfectly indulgent.
• 4 eggs: Eggs bring structure and a tender crumb to your cake.
• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour: The right amount delivers softness and sturdiness to the cake layers.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it a light texture.
• ½ tsp salt: A pinch of salt sharpens the sweetness, making flavors pop.
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and keeps the cake incredibly moist.
• 2 tsp vanilla: Provides the warm, comforting aroma that rounds out every bite.
• ½ cup (120ml) salted caramel sauce: This is where all the magic happens—the rich, buttery caramel flavor woven throughout the cake.

How to Make Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake

Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Preheating the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 325°F (160°C). Butter your Bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly, then dust it with flour to make sure the cake releases easily when baked. This step might seem small, but it ensures your cake retains its perfect shape and doesn’t get stuck to the pan’s sides.

Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

Using softened butter makes all the difference here. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air which helps your cake rise and gives that soft crumb texture. Once fluffy, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a smooth batter.

Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed and the salt hits the cake in just the right spots to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Alternating Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add your flour mixture to the butter mixture in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. This technique keeps the batter light and tender, avoiding overmixing which can toughen the cake.

Step 5: Adding Vanilla and Salted Caramel Swirl

Gently fold in the vanilla extract and half a cup of salted caramel sauce. This swirl of caramel is what sets the Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake apart, infusing every piece with rich, buttery caramel goodness that makes it impossible to resist.

Step 6: Baking to Golden Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the oven for 45 to 55 minutes if using a Bundt pan, or 35 to 40 minutes for a sheet pan, until the cake is golden on the surface and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The extended baking time at a slightly cooler temperature ensures a moist center with a beautiful crust.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch of delight, drizzle additional salted caramel over the top while the cake is still slightly warm and sprinkle with sea salt flakes to create that perfect sweet and salty contrast.

How to Serve Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake

Garnishes

The final touch for your beautifully baked cake could be as simple as a sprinkle of sea salt flakes to highlight the salted caramel or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an airy richness that complements each bite. These little details intensify the flavors and elevate your presentation to something special for your guests.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee. The creamy ice cream melts into the warm caramel notes, while the coffee’s slight bitterness balances the cake’s sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, serve slices on elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce and a sprig of fresh mint. You could also turn the cake into decadent mini parfaits by layering crumbled cake with salted caramel and whipped cream in clear glasses for a stunning visual and flavor combo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves the cake’s moisture and flavor perfectly, so each slice tastes just as wonderful as the first.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this delightful cake longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the whole cake or slices individually in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a tender, fresh taste.

Reheating

To rejuvenate a slice of frozen or stored cake, warm it gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped loosely in foil just until warmed. This brings back the buttery softness and enhances the salted caramel’s gooey pleasure.

FAQs

Can I use regular caramel sauce instead of salted caramel?

You can definitely use regular caramel, but the pinch of salt in salted caramel really elevates the flavor by balancing the sweetness. If you only have regular caramel, consider sprinkling a little sea salt on top to achieve that perfect sweet-salty combo.

What type of pan works best for this cake?

A Bundt pan is traditional and creates a lovely presentation with a beautiful crust all around, but a 9×13-inch sheet pan works perfectly if you want to serve a crowd or prefer easy slicing. Just adjust your baking time accordingly.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

How do I avoid the cake sinking in the middle?

Make sure not to open the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking, as temperature fluctuations can cause sinking. Also, accurately measuring your flour and leavening agents helps maintain the right structure.

Is it okay to add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a lovely crunch and complement the caramel flavor, while chocolate chips bring out a rich contrast. Just fold them gently into the batter before baking for an extra special twist.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know all the secrets behind this dreamy Kentucky-Style Salted Caramel Butter Cake, I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and bake one yourself. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of Southern warmth and indulgence all on a plate. Whether shared with family, gifted to friends, or enjoyed as your own little treat, this cake brings joy and comfort one bite at a time. Happy baking!