Description
Heavenly Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are buttery, tender cookies inspired by the rich and flavorful Kentucky Butter Cake. Featuring a light and fluffy texture infused with vanilla and a luscious buttery glaze, these cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a delightful treat anytime. This recipe transforms the classic cake into easy-to-make, bite-sized delights that satisfy sweet cravings with their iconic glaze and soft crumb.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups (310 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (225 grams / 8 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp butter extract (optional)
Glaze
- ½ cup (115 grams / 4 oz) unsalted butter
- ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60 mL / 2 fl oz) water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookies.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and powdered sugar for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and butter extract (if using), mixing until everything is fully blended.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Chill the Dough: Optional but recommended—refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to help it firm up for easier scooping and better cookie shape.
- Scoop the Dough: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined cookie sheet, spacing them adequately to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cookies bake, melt the ½ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the granulated sugar and water, then bring the mixture to a slow boil to create the glaze. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Glaze the Cookies: When the cookies are warm, either dip them into the prepared glaze or drizzle the glaze over them. Let them cool slightly to set the glaze and enjoy!
Notes
- Chilling the dough helps control spreading and results in thicker cookies.
- Butter extract is optional but enhances the buttery flavor for a more authentic Kentucky Butter Cake taste.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for better mixing and texture.
- For a stronger glaze flavor, allow the glazed cookies to set overnight before serving.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, buttery cookies, glazed cookies, vanilla cookies, homemade cookies, American desserts
