- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons caramel-flavored coffee creamer
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional Homemade Salted Caramel Topping
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 3 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, salt, cream of tartar, baking powder, and baking soda.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter, coffee creamer (or buttermilk), vanilla, and eggs until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, beating on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the batter is light and creamy.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Butter Drizzle
- While the cake bakes, combine the sugar, butter, coffee creamer, and vanilla in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
Step 4: Drizzle and Cool
- Once the cake is baked, keep it in the pan and pierce it gently all over with a thin skewer or fork.
- Slowly pour the warm caramel butter drizzle over the cake, allowing it to soak in deeply.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before carefully inverting onto a serving plate.
Step 5: Make the Salted Caramel Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended)
- In a deep saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium without stirring until the mixture boils and turns a deep amber color (6–8 minutes).
- Remove from heat, then carefully whisk in the cream—it will bubble vigorously.
- Stir in the butter and salt until smooth and glossy.
- Let it cool slightly before drizzling generously over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
- Add fresh whipped cream and toasted pecans for extra indulgence.
- For a show-stopping holiday dessert, garnish with caramel shards or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Before you go
This Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake is a true celebration of rich flavors and Southern baking tradition. With its buttery crumb, caramel soak, and optional salted caramel finish, every bite is pure decadence. Bake it for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something unforgettable.
Will you drizzle yours with the extra salted caramel, or enjoy it just with the buttery soak?