ina garten kentucky butter cake

3 min read 21-02-2025

Meta Description: Indulge in the irresistible richness of Ina Garten's Kentucky Butter Cake! This recipe guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough, pro-tips, and variations for baking this Southern classic. Discover the secrets to a moist, tender, and perfectly frosted cake that's guaranteed to impress. Get ready to bake the best Kentucky Butter Cake you've ever tasted!

The Allure of Ina Garten's Kentucky Butter Cake

Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, has a knack for transforming classic recipes into unforgettable culinary experiences. Her Kentucky Butter Cake is no exception. This recipe isn't just a cake; it's a celebration of butter, sugar, and pure Southern comfort. The moist, tender crumb, paired with a luscious, creamy frosting, makes it a dessert that's both elegant and approachable. This guide will walk you through Ina's recipe, offering tips and tricks to ensure your Kentucky Butter Cake is the star of your next gathering.

Ingredients You'll Need:

Before you start, gather these ingredients. Accurate measurements are key to baking success!

For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:

Follow these steps carefully to achieve Ina Garten's signature perfection.

1. Preparing the Cake Batter:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air for a lighter texture.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake.

2. Baking the Cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.

3. Making the Dreamy Frosting:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Frosting and Serving:

Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the cream cheese frosting.
Slice and serve. This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks for Ina Garten-Level Success:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter will result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Cooling Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Variations on a Classic:

Chocolate Kentucky Butter Cake: Add 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
Lemon Kentucky Butter Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter and a few drops of lemon extract to the frosting.
Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion:

Ina Garten's Kentucky Butter Cake is a true masterpiece. By following this recipe and incorporating these tips, you'll be able to bake a cake that's as delicious as it is visually stunning. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to experience the decadent delight of this Southern classic. Enjoy!