Kentucky Butter Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup softened butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Butter Sauce:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix well after each addition.
   • Pour the batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and the center tube of the pan, then invert the cake onto a wire rack over a piece of wax paper.
2. Make the Butter Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and water. Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Poke holes in the top of the warm cake and pour 1/4 cup of the sauce over the cake. Allow it to soak in.

Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Butter Cake!