16 Kentucky Bourbon Cake Recipe Southern Living Delight In These Amazing Recipes!

Published on: Mar 9, 2024

Kentucky bourbon cake is a beloved dessert in southern cooking, with its rich and indulgent flavors making it a staple at family gatherings and special occasions. This quintessential southern dessert is a perfect combination of two of the region's most beloved ingredients: bourbon and cake. If you're looking to add a touch of southern charm to your next baking adventure, look no further than this mouth-watering Kentucky bourbon cake recipe from Southern Living.

Jump to Recipe

1 of 40

Classic Kentucky Mint Julep

Main Ingredients: Bourbon, Mint Leaves, Simple Syrup, Ice Cubes, Crushed

Mint Julep (classic Kentucky Derby cocktail) - The Chunky Chef

Classic Mint Julep – A Couple Cooks

Classic Mint Julep Recipe - just in time for the Kentucky Derby! | Mint ...

7 Tricks to Make the BEST Mint Julep Ever | Mint julep cocktail, Julep ...

What better way to start off our list than with the classic Kentucky Mint Julep? This refreshing cocktail is a staple at the famous Kentucky Derby and is the perfect drink to pair with your Beer Can Chicken. Made with bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint, this drink is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ.

2 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Cake #BundtBakers

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt, Butter

A light and tender Kentucky bourbon bundt cake that has bourbon both ...

Best-Ever Kentucky Bourbon Cake | Recipe in 2021 | Bourbon cake, Easy ...

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Cake | Chocolate bourbon ...

Kentucky Butter Cake | Recipe | Bourbon cake recipe, Cake recipes ...

If you have a sweet tooth, then this Kentucky Bourbon Cake is a must-try. Made with bourbon, butter, and a delicious glaze, this cake is moist, rich, and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for any special occasion or as a tasty treat to enjoy with your Beer Can Chicken.

3 of 40

Southern Bourbon Cake

Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Flour, Cinnamon, Baking Powder

Bourbon Cake Recipe with Pecans: A Southern Classic | Restless Chipotle

Kentucky Bourbon Bundt Cake - Joanne Eats Well With Others

Kentucky Bourbon Cake Recipe – Simply Southern Mom

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake - Spicy Southern Kitchen

For a twist on the classic Kentucky Bourbon Cake, try this Southern version. The addition of pecans and a bourbon glaze takes this cake to a whole new level. It's the perfect balance of sweet and boozy, making it the perfect dessert to enjoy after a savory Beer Can Chicken dinner.

4 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Cake/Whiskey Cake

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Candied Pineapple, Bourbon, Chopped Pecans

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted ...

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake (Redux Recipe) - Hummingbird High - A ...

Kentucky Bourbon A chocolate chip bourbon cake topped with Brown sugar ...

If you can't decide between bourbon or whiskey, why not have both? This Kentucky Bourbon Cake/Whiskey Cake recipe combines the best of both worlds. The result is a decadent and delicious cake that will have your taste buds singing. Don't forget to pair it with a cold beer and some Beer Can Chicken for the ultimate meal.

5 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Cake

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Fine Sea Salt

This classic Kentucky Bourbon Cake recipe is a tried and true favorite. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this cake is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The addition of bourbon gives it a subtle yet delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with Beer Can Chicken.

6 of 40

Kentucky Peach Cocktail

Main Ingredients: Peach, Peach Vodka, Lemonade, Simple Syrup, Bourbon

Kentucky Peach Bourbon and Vodka Cocktail in a Glass with Drink Half ...

Whether you're looking for the perfect Kentucky Derby cocktail or easy ...

Peach Bourbon Smash: An Easy Peach Cocktail With 4 Ingredients

28 best Evan Williams Peach Cocktail Recipes images on Pinterest ...

If you're a fan of peaches, then you'll love this Kentucky Peach Cocktail. Made with fresh peaches, bourbon, and lemon juice, this cocktail is light, refreshing, and perfect for a hot summer day. It's the perfect drink to enjoy while grilling up some tasty Beer Can Chicken.

7 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Pie

Main Ingredients: Unbaked Pie Crust, Large Eggs, Light Brown Sugar, Light

Kentucky Derby Pie with Walnuts and Bourbon | Creative Culinary

The sweet kick of Bourbon with a buttery smooth pecan filling. You'll ...

The Art of Homemaking: Kentucky Derby Bourbon Pie Ice Cream Kentucky ...

If you're looking for a unique and delicious dessert to pair with your Beer Can Chicken, look no further than this Kentucky Bourbon Pie. Made with a buttery crust, a creamy filling, and a splash of bourbon, this pie is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgent treat.

8 of 40

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep

Main Ingredients: Mint Leaves, Simple Syrup, Bourbon, Crushed Ice, Mint

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Bar | Pizzazzerie

Derby Day Kentucky Mint Julep Recipe - The Chunky Chef

Another Mint Julep recipe? Yes, please! This Kentucky Derby Mint Julep recipe is a little different than the classic version, as it includes a splash of grapefruit juice. The result is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of Beer Can Chicken.

9 of 40

Bourbon Glazed Kentucky Butter Cake

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Pure

Kentucky Butter Cake - Brown Eyed Baker

The Tasty Cheapskate: Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

This Bourbon Glazed Kentucky Butter Cake is a showstopper. Made with a rich and buttery cake, a bourbon glaze, and topped with fresh berries, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it as a sweet ending to a meal of Beer Can Chicken, and your guests will be blown away.

10 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Kosher Salt

Kentucky Butter Cake with Bourbon Glaze — Gathered Living | Kentucky ...

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake » Hummingbird High

Another twist on the classic Kentucky Bourbon Cake, this Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake is a must-try. The addition of butter gives this cake a rich and velvety texture, while the bourbon adds a subtle yet delicious flavor. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert.

11 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Buttermilk Cake

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt, Unsalted

Kentucky Bourbon Cake - CakeCentral.com

If you're a fan of buttermilk, then you'll love this Kentucky Bourbon Buttermilk Cake. The tanginess of the buttermilk pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake, and the bourbon adds a unique and delicious twist. This cake is the perfect accompaniment to a flavorful Beer Can Chicken dinner.

12 of 40

Kentucky Derby Pie

Main Ingredients: Butter, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, Large Eggs, Light

Easy Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe - Kasey Trenum

This Kentucky Derby Pie is a classic dessert in the South. Made with pecans, chocolate chips, and a splash of bourbon, this pie is rich, indulgent, and perfect for any occasion. It's the perfect dessert to serve after a delicious meal of Beer Can Chicken.

13 of 40

Original Kentucky Whiskey Cake

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Bourbon, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder

Kentucky Butter Cake Tried and True! Southern Recipe

whiskey cake | Cake, Whiskey cake, Desserts

Whiskey cake - Decorated Cake by TORTESANJAVISEGRAD - CakesDecor

Kentucky Butter Cake - Gonna Want Seconds

For a little variety, why not try this Original Kentucky Whiskey Cake recipe? Made with whiskey instead of bourbon, this cake has a unique and delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with Beer Can Chicken. The addition of a whiskey glaze takes it to the next level.

14 of 40

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Vanilla

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake - Foodtastic Mom Skillet Desserts, Skillet ...

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake Skillet Desserts, Skillet Cake, Iron ...

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake - Foodtastic Mom

For a twist on the traditional cake, try this Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake. Made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and bourbon, this cake is baked in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic and delicious dessert. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting and flavorful treat.

15 of 40

Kentucky Derby Pie Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla

Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie - Cupcakes & Kale Chips | Recipe | Chocolate ...

Kentucky Derby Pie Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars - CountryLiving.com ...

If you can't decide between cookies or pie, then these Kentucky Derby Pie Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect compromise. Made with a buttery cookie base, a layer of chocolate chips, and a pecan and bourbon filling, these bars are a decadent and delicious treat.

16 of 40

Woodford Reserve’s Kentucky Butter Cake

Main Ingredients: Butter, White Sugar, Eggs, Bourbon, Lemons, All Purpose

Kentucky Butter Cake - CheekyKitchen

This Woodford Reserve's Kentucky Butter Cake is the ultimate indulgence. Made with a rich and buttery cake, a bourbon glaze, and topped with a bourbon whipped cream, this dessert is sure to impress. Serve it alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a meal your guests won't forget.

17 of 40

Southern Honey Bourbon Glazed Ham

Main Ingredients: Bone In Ham, Honey, Bourbon, Brown Sugar, Onion Powder

Delicious Southern bourbon pecan glazed ham is the perfect combination ...

Bourbon Honey Glazed Ham - Goodie Godmother - A Recipe and Lifestyle Blog

Apricot Bourbon Glazed Ham | greens & chocolate | Ham glaze, Bourbon ...

Looking to switch up your Beer Can Chicken game? Try this Southern Honey Bourbon Glazed Ham recipe. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is a match made in heaven, and the addition of bourbon adds a unique twist. This ham is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ.

18 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Balls

Main Ingredients: Unsweetened Cocoa, Powdered Sugar, Bourbon Whiskey

How to make easy Old Fashioned Kentucky Bourbon Balls. Boozy pecans ...

Kentucky Bourbon Balls Recipe - The Soccer Mom Blog

Kentucky Bourbon Balls - Homemade Hooplah

For a boozy and delicious treat, try these Kentucky Bourbon Balls. Made with bourbon, chocolate, and pecans, these bite-sized treats are perfect for serving alongside your Beer Can Chicken. Just be careful, they're highly addictive.

19 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Bundt Cake with Salted Caramel...

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Kosher Salt

This Kentucky bourbon butter cake recipe makes an incredibly buttery ...

This Kentucky Bourbon Butter Bundt Cake with Salted Caramel is a showstopper. The combination of rich and buttery cake, a salted caramel glaze, and a splash of bourbon creates a dessert that is out of this world. Pair it with a cold beer and some Beer Can Chicken for a meal that will leave your guests wanting more.

20 of 40

Kentucky Buttermilk Pie!

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Self Rising Flour, Melted Butter, Eggs

Buttermilk Pie {Classic Southern Recipe} – WellPlated.com

For a simple yet delicious dessert, try this Kentucky Buttermilk Pie. Made with just a few ingredients, this pie is easy to make and oh-so-tasty. The tanginess of the buttermilk pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pie, and the addition of bourbon adds a unique and delicious flavor.

21 of 40

Classic Kentucky Mint Julep

Main Ingredients: Bourbon, Mint Leaves, Simple Syrup, Ice Cubes, Crushed

If you're a fan of the classic Kentucky Derby drink, then you'll love this twist on a traditional Mint Julep. This recipe incorporates a whole chicken and a can of beer to create a flavorful and moist chicken that will have your taste buds dancing.

22 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Cake #BundtBakers

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt, Butter

This recipe is perfect for those who love a little bit of sweetness in their meals. The addition of bourbon to this cake gives it a rich and unique flavor that will leave you wanting more. It's a great option for a dessert after your beer can chicken dinner.

23 of 40

Southern Bourbon Cake

Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Flour, Cinnamon, Baking Powder

Bourbon Cake Recipe: Authentic Southern Style | Recipe in 2021 ...

Southern Pecan Pound Cake | RecipeLion.com

Another delicious bourbon cake recipe, this one adds a touch of southern charm with the addition of pecans and a bourbon glaze. It's a perfect combination of sweet and savory, making it a great accompaniment to your beer can chicken.

24 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Cake/Whiskey Cake

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Candied Pineapple, Bourbon, Chopped Pecans

Kentucky Bourbon Cake, Recipe for Whiskey Cake

Bourbon Cake Recipe: Authentic Southern Style | Recipe | Bourbon cake ...

Not a fan of bourbon? No problem! This recipe can be made with your favorite whiskey instead. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that will pair perfectly with your chicken. Don't forget to drizzle some extra whiskey on top for an added kick.

25 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Cake

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Fine Sea Salt

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake | hummingbird high || a desserts and ...

Kentucky Woods Cake - Kentucky Proud Product - Derby Gifts

If you're looking for a simpler bourbon cake recipe, this one is for you. With only a few ingredients, this cake is easy to make and will still give you that delicious bourbon flavor. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a perfect meal.

26 of 40

Kentucky Peach Cocktail

Main Ingredients: Peach, Peach Vodka, Lemonade, Simple Syrup, Bourbon

Kentucky Lemonade Recipe (bourbon cocktail) - The Chunky Chef

Why not incorporate some fruit into your beer can chicken meal? This peach cocktail recipe not only adds a refreshing touch to your meal, but it also pairs perfectly with the flavors in the chicken. It's a win-win situation.

27 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Pie

Main Ingredients: Unbaked Pie Crust, Large Eggs, Light Brown Sugar, Light

Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe | CDKitchen.com

This pie is not for the faint of heart. It's rich, decadent, and full of bourbon flavor. It's the perfect dessert to serve after your beer can chicken dinner. Just make sure to save some room for it!

28 of 40

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep

Main Ingredients: Mint Leaves, Simple Syrup, Bourbon, Crushed Ice, Mint

The Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Done 2 Ways: Proper and with a Blackberry ...

Early Times Mint Julep Official Drink of of Kentucky Derby 137 ...

Mint Julep Recipe: Kentucky Derby Staple Is a Must for Any Party

This recipe is a must-try for any Mint Julep lover. It incorporates the traditional flavors of the drink into a delicious marinade for your chicken. The result is a tender and flavorful chicken that will have you coming back for seconds.

29 of 40

Bourbon Glazed Kentucky Butter Cake

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Pure

Looking for a unique and tasty way to use up your leftover beer can chicken? Look no further than this Bourbon Glazed Kentucky Butter Cake. The combination of flavors in this dish is mouth-watering and will have you wanting to make it again and again.

30 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Kosher Salt

This cake is all about the buttery goodness. With layers of butter and a bourbon glaze, this cake is perfect for those who love a rich and decadent dessert. It's the perfect way to end your beer can chicken meal.

31 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Buttermilk Cake

Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt, Unsalted

Sweet Tea and Cornbread: Kentucky Bourbon Pound Cake!

Another great option for those who love a little bit of sweetness in their meals. This buttermilk cake is moist and full of flavor, thanks to the addition of bourbon. It's a great dessert to serve after your beer can chicken dinner.

32 of 40

Kentucky Derby Pie

Main Ingredients: Butter, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, Large Eggs, Light

Who doesn't love a good pie? This Kentucky Derby Pie is a delicious combination of chocolate, pecans, and bourbon. It's a perfect way to end your meal and will leave your guests wanting more.

33 of 40

Original Kentucky Whiskey Cake

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Bourbon, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder

whiskey cake the woodlands instagram - Elyse Raley

If you're a fan of whiskey, then this cake is for you. It's a delicious and moist cake that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of whiskey gives it a unique and delicious flavor that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

34 of 40

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Vanilla

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake | Skillet cake, French apple cake, Cake ...

Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake - Foodtastic Mom Just Desserts, Delicious ...

Looking for a recipe that's a little different from the traditional bourbon cake? This Kentucky Apple Skillet Cake is a tasty and unique option. The combination of apples and bourbon creates a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for any time of year.

35 of 40

Kentucky Derby Pie Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla

Why choose between cookies and pie when you can have both? These Kentucky Derby Pie Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert mashup. They are easy to make and will be a hit at any gathering.

36 of 40

Woodford Reserve’s Kentucky Butter Cake

Main Ingredients: Butter, White Sugar, Eggs, Bourbon, Lemons, All Purpose

Kentucky Butter Cake - Insanely Good

Kentucky Butter Sauce Pound Cake | Recipe Cart

This cake is all about the butter and the bourbon. The addition of Woodford Reserve bourbon takes this cake to the next level, giving it a rich and unique flavor. It's a perfect dessert to serve after your beer can chicken dinner.

37 of 40

Southern Honey Bourbon Glazed Ham

Main Ingredients: Bone In Ham, Honey, Bourbon, Brown Sugar, Onion Powder

Spiral Ham with a Honey Bourbon Glaze - Goodie Godmother

Southern Honey Glazed Ham | Recipe | Honey glazed ham, Ham glaze, Honey ...

Honey Bourbon Glazed Ham • The Crumby Kitchen

Looking for a different way to use up your leftover beer can chicken? This Southern Honey Bourbon Glazed Ham is a delicious and tasty option. The addition of honey and bourbon creates a glaze that will have your taste buds singing.

38 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Balls

Main Ingredients: Unsweetened Cocoa, Powdered Sugar, Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon Balls - Spicy Southern Kitchen

If you're a fan of bourbon, then these Kentucky Bourbon Balls are a must-try. They are easy to make and make a great addition to any dessert table. They also pair perfectly with your beer can chicken meal.

39 of 40

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Bundt Cake with Salted Caramel...

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Kosher Salt

Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake - Cookaholic Wife

Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake - Healthy Food Delicious

Salted caramel and bourbon? Yes, please! This cake is a decadent and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It's also a great way to use up any leftover beer can chicken.

40 of 40

Kentucky Buttermilk Pie!

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Self Rising Flour, Melted Butter, Eggs

Easy Classic Buttermilk Pie Recipe Recipe - Crazy for Crust

Last but not least, we have a classic Kentucky Buttermilk Pie. This recipe is simple and easy to make, but don't let that fool you. It's packed with flavor and is the perfect way to end your beer can chicken meal.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Cake:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup bourbon
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup bourbon

If you're a fan of bourbon, you'll love this cake. The recipe calls for a whopping 1 cup of bourbon, which gives the cake its signature boozy flavor. Don't worry, the alcohol cooks off during baking, leaving behind a subtle but distinct taste that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. To begin, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add in eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, slowly pour in the bourbon, followed by a mixture of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Finally, add in the milk and vanilla extract, and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased and floured bundt pan, and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by melting butter in a saucepan and stirring in water and sugar until dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining bourbon. Once the cake is finished, let it cool for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, brush the glaze all over the surface, allowing it to soak into the cake. Let the cake cool completely before serving. This Kentucky bourbon cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Its rich and moist texture, combined with the warm and comforting flavors of bourbon, make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. So go ahead, indulge in a slice of southern charm with this delicious recipe from Southern Living.