If you’ve ever been enchanted by the rich, buttery goodness of traditional Southern desserts, you are going to fall head over heels for this Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture the essence of classic Kentucky Butter Cake with their tender crumb, sweet vanilla glaze, and that irresistible buttery flavor that lingers on your palate. Perfectly soft yet slightly crisp at the edges, each bite feels like a warm hug from the South. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into cookies that glow with homemade love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies is delightfully straightforward because the ingredients are simple but truly essential. Each ingredient plays a starring role—whether it’s lending moisture, flavor, or the perfect texture that makes these cookies so memorable.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The heart of the recipe, providing that rich, creamy base that makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the butter’s richness and helps create a tender crumb with just the right level of sweetness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together while adding moisture and a slight lift to the dough.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses aromatic warmth and depth, making the cookies taste comforting and homey.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The sturdy structure that keeps your cookies perfectly soft but not crumbly.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Adds gentle leavening so the cookies rise just enough for a tender bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Butter (1/3 cup for glaze): Used in the glaze to add a glossy sheen and extra rich flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup for glaze): Sweetens the glaze to complement the buttery cookie base.
- Water (1 tablespoon for glaze): Helps dissolve the sugar and thin the glaze for perfect brushability.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for glaze): Brings the glaze in harmony with the cookie’s vanilla notes.
- Powdered sugar (optional for dusting): A pretty finish that adds delicate sweetness and a festive touch.
How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and inviting. This creaming process is crucial because it whips air into the dough, giving your cookies the delightful tenderness you want.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, add the eggs to the creamed mixture, beating thoroughly after each addition. This step ensures the batter emulsifies beautifully. Then, mix in the vanilla extract to infuse that warm, aromatic character that defines this Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into your butter mixture until a smooth, soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing here—the goal is a tender texture, not tough cookies!
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, watching for lightly golden edges with centers that are set but still soft. When they’re done, let the cookies cool for about five minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them gently to a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare and Apply the Butter Glaze
While your cookies are cooling, it’s time for the magic glaze. On medium heat, melt the butter in a small saucepan and stir in the sugar and water. Keep stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is just about to boil—this creates a luscious, shiny glaze to crown your cookies. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, then generously brush the warm glaze onto the tops of each cookie. Allow it to soak in and cool completely, creating a sweet, sticky finish that beautifully complements the buttery cookie beneath.
How to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy touch that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion. If you want to get a bit fancy, try adding a sprinkle of coarse sugar or even a drizzle of vanilla icing after glazing to amp up both the flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair fantastically with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy cup of chai tea, enhancing both the drink and the dessert experience. For an indulgent treat, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of whipped cream to play up that buttery richness with contrasting textures and temperatures.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the cookie jar by layering Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies between slices of pound cake for a dessert sandwich or stacking them with dollops of fresh whipped cream and seasonal berries for a layered parfait. These ideas transform your cookies into crowd-pleasing centerpieces that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their soft texture beautifully for up to four days, and you’ll even notice the glaze getting deeper in flavor as it soaks into the cookie.
Freezing
If you want to bake ahead for special occasions, these cookies freeze well. Arrange cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature—the glaze remains glossy and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat your cookies gently in a low oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about five minutes to revive that just-baked warmth without melting the glaze completely. This little step brings back the freshly made charm and soft texture, making them taste like you just pulled them from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can substitute salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but be sure to reduce or omit any extra salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty cookie. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the flavor balance.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be mindful that the texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still get delicious results.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies stay fresh and delightful for up to four days. They even taste better the next day as the glaze continues to infuse the cookie.
Can I skip the glaze?
The glaze is what truly sets this recipe apart, giving it that signature buttery shine and extra sweetness. However, if you prefer a simpler cookie, you can enjoy them plain or dust them with powdered sugar for a lighter touch.
What’s the best way to make the glaze shiny and smooth?
Stir the glaze constantly while heating and remove it just before it reaches a full boil. This prevents crystallization and keeps the glaze glossy. Adding vanilla off the heat also preserves that lovely aroma and smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe that brings Southern comfort right into your kitchen. These cookies offer a perfect balance of buttery richness and sweet elegance, making them a go-to treat for any occasion. I hope you enjoy baking and savoring each bite as much as I do—once you try them, they’ll be one of your favorite cookie recipes too!
Print
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are soft, buttery, and glazed sugar cookies inspired by the classic Southern butter cake. These cookies combine a tender dough with a sweet butter glaze that soaks into the warm cookies, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for dessert or tea time.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring the cookies’ tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms, making sure not to overmix.
- Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set, giving the cookies a soft and tender crumb.
- Cool Slightly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cookies cool, combine butter, sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to boil. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Glaze the Cookies: While the cookies are still warm, brush the butter glaze generously over each cookie to soak in sweetness and moisture.
- Final Touch: Allow the glaze to soak in and cool completely. Optionally, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- The cookies taste even better the next day as the glaze fully soaks in, enhancing the flavor and texture.
- For a festive variation, add a sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking or drizzle with vanilla icing after glazing.
