Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on the iconic Kentucky Butter Cake. These soft, buttery cookies are infused with the rich flavor of vanilla and topped with a decadent buttery glaze. Perfectly sweet with a tender crumb, they capture the Southern charm of the original cake in a portable, bite-sized treat.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a casual dessert, or just indulging your sweet tooth, Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are sure to impress. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re destined to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Core Ingredients
To make these rich and flavorful cookies, you’ll need:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cookie dough, providing structure.
- Unsalted Butter: Room-temperature butter ensures a tender, buttery flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve the classic cookie texture.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a slight caramel flavor.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the dough.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and stay light.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Ingredients for the Butter Glaze
- Butter: Melted butter forms the base of the glaze, providing richness.
- Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze that clings to the cookies.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and complements the cookie’s flavor.
- Milk or Heavy Cream: Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Almond Extract: Swap or mix with vanilla extract for a subtle nutty twist.
- Lemon or Orange Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note to balance the richness.
- Chopped Nuts: Mix in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Sprinkles: Add a festive touch to the glaze for special occasions.
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¼ cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a soft and tender texture.
- Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for a warm, sweet flavor.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the cookies dense.
- Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Step 2: Baking the Cookies
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Form the Cookies:
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into balls about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft and tender.
- Cool:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Making the Butter Glaze
- Melt the Butter:
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter.
- Mix the Glaze:
- Whisk in 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2–3 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
Step 4: Glazing the Cookies
- Drizzle the Glaze:
- Using a spoon or small piping bag, drizzle the butter glaze over the cooled cookies.
- Let It Set:
- Allow the glaze to set for about 10–15 minutes before serving. The glaze adds a glossy finish and locks in the buttery flavor.
Tips for Perfect Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Using the Right Ingredients
- Butter Quality Matters: Since butter is the star ingredient, use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. Avoid using margarine or low-fat alternatives, as they can affect the texture and taste.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This allows for smoother mixing and a consistent dough texture.
How to Achieve a Soft Texture in Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies can develop gluten, resulting in tougher cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is essential when making Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This step ensures they stay soft and thick.
Watch the Baking Time: Bake the cookies just until the edges turn golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as the Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies cool, resulting in a perfectly soft and chewy treat.
Serving and Storing Suggestions for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies freshly glazed and warm or at room temperature. Their buttery glaze and soft crumb are most delightful when enjoyed fresh.
Storage: Store leftover Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 7 days while preserving their freshness.
Reheating: If you’ve refrigerated your Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. For that fresh-baked taste, warm them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Creative Variations of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Adding Spices or Extracts
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery glaze.
- Almond Extract: Replace half of the vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty twist.
Incorporating Fruit Zest or Nuts
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor. The citrus pairs wonderfully with the rich buttery notes of the cookies.
- Chopped Nuts: Fold in finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added crunch and texture.
Creating a Gluten-Free Version
- Use Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for proper binding.
- Adjust the Liquid: Gluten-free dough may require a little extra moisture. Add an additional tablespoon of milk or heavy cream if the dough feels too dry.
Drizzling with Different Glazes
- Maple Glaze: Replace vanilla extract with maple syrup in the glaze for a sweet, earthy flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt semisweet or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a decadent finish.
Recipe:
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are soft, buttery cookies inspired by the classic Southern butter cake. With a tender crumb and a glaze that soaks into every bite, these cookies are rich, decadent, and downright irresistible! 🍪✨
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
For the Butter Glaze:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Bake the Cookies
- Scoop the Dough:
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Butter Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and water, and cook until the sugar dissolves (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Glaze the Cookies
- Brush or Drizzle:
- While the cookies are still warm, brush or drizzle the butter glaze over the tops, allowing it to soak in for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- Enjoy:
- Serve warm or at room temperature for a rich, buttery treat that melts in your mouth.
Tips:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Info:
Prep Time: 15 mins | Baking Time: 12 mins | Total Time: 30 mins
Calories per cookie: ~180 | 🍽️ Servings: 24 cookies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze very well! To freeze unglazed cookies, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature and add the glaze just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Do I have to use a glaze?
While the butter glaze is a signature element of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, it’s not mandatory. The cookies are rich and flavorful on their own. If you prefer, dust them with powdered sugar for a simpler finish or enjoy them plain.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. For longer storage, freeze the dough in pre-portioned scoops for quick and easy baking whenever the craving strikes.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store glazed cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If stacking, place a layer of parchment paper between each layer to prevent the glaze from sticking. Refrigerate them for extended freshness, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, as salted butter has varying salt levels depending on the brand.
Conclusion
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves rich, buttery flavors with a touch of Southern charm. These cookies take everything we adore about the classic Kentucky Butter Cake and transform it into bite-sized treats perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, sharing them as gifts, or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to impress.
Looking for more sweet inspiration? Try our Chocolate Chip Cheesecake for another decadent treat or explore PeachCobbler Egg Rolls for a fruity twist on dessert.