There’s a reason Kentucky Butter Cake has been a Southern staple for generations: it’s impossibly moist, tender as a whisper, and soaked in a buttery glaze that seeps into every golden crumb. But what if you took that beloved classic and elevated it with a ribbon of homemade salted caramel—swirled through the batter and drizzled over the top like liquid gold?

Meet your new holiday showstopper: Decadent Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake. It’s rich without being heavy, sweet with a hint of salt, and so moist it stays fresh for days. One slice, and you’ll understand why this cake disappears faster than you can say “pass the second slice.”

Let’s bake a cake that’s equal parts nostalgia and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Butter Cake
✅ Only 10 minutes of prep—one bowl, minimal cleanup
✅ Uses a yellow cake mix (or homemade base) for ease
✅ Naturally nut-free (check caramel label)
✅ Better the next day—flavors deepen beautifully
✅ Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or “just because”For the Cake:
1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box—usually eggs, oil, water)
→ Or use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe (baked in a 9×13 pan)
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Salted Caramel Swirl & Glaze:
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1½ tsp flaky sea salt, divided
2–3 tbsp reserved caramel (for drizzling)