There’s something magical about a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings comfort to any occasion. Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are one of those nostalgic desserts that remind you of the warmth of family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy evenings spent with friends. This recipe takes the beloved Kentucky Butter Cake—a southern favorite known for its rich, buttery flavor and irresistible glaze—and turns it into easy-to-make cookies. Whether you’re baking for a special event, a bake sale, or just because, these cookies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of a soft, tender cookie with a sweet, vanilla glaze is the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked, and so will everyone else around you!
Why You’ll Love Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
These cookies combine the best of both worlds: the comforting flavors of butter cake with the convenience of a cookie recipe. With only a few ingredients—many of which you probably already have in your pantry—you can whip up a batch of these treats in no time. The buttery dough is enriched with the delicious vanilla glaze, making every bite pure bliss. Plus, the dough itself is thick and easy to work with, which means you won’t need any special baking skills to create these delectable cookies. They’re the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss.
But it’s not just the flavor that makes these cookies so irresistible—it’s also the texture. Soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the edges, and topped with a shiny, sweet glaze that sets beautifully as it cools. They’re not only delicious but also photogenic—making them perfect for sharing on social media. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a holiday gathering or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies will hit the spot.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Before you get started, let’s make sure you have all the ingredients you need to create these melt-in-your-mouth cookies. Here’s a simple rundown of what you’ll need for both the cookies and the glaze:
For the Cookies:
- 1 box white cake mix: This is the shortcut that makes these cookies so quick and easy to prepare. It provides the perfect base for the dough while keeping it light and fluffy.
- 2 eggs, whisked: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and give the cookies that tender, soft texture we love.
- 1/3 cup butter, melted: Butter is the star ingredient in these cookies, infusing them with richness and flavor. Be sure to melt it before mixing it into the dough for a smooth consistency.
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup butter: Another helping of butter to add richness and flavor to the glaze.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sugar is the base of the glaze, helping it to thicken and give that satisfying sweetness.
- 1 tbsp water: A small amount of water to help dissolve the sugar and bring the glaze to the right consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla: This classic flavor adds a comforting, warm aroma and rounds out the sweetness of the glaze.
Instructions: How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Ready to get baking? Follow these simple instructions to make your own batch of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert that everyone will rave about.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is the perfect temperature when you place your cookies inside, allowing them to bake evenly and achieve that soft, golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, whisked eggs, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the dough is fully incorporated. Don’t be alarmed if the dough is a little thick—that’s completely normal! It should hold its shape and be easy to scoop.
Step 3: Scoop the Cookies
Using a medium-sized cookie scoop (or a heaping tablespoon), scoop the dough and place it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. The parchment paper helps prevent the cookies from sticking, making cleanup a breeze. Be sure to leave about 2 inches between each cookie to allow room for spreading.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 7-8 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The center should still look soft, but they will continue to cook a little bit on the hot baking sheet once removed from the oven.
Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 4-5 minutes. This allows them to firm up just enough for easy transfer. Then, move the cookies to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium-low heat for about 4 minutes, whisking constantly. The sugar should dissolve completely, and the mixture will thicken slightly. Once the glaze has reached the right consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, it’s time to drizzle on the glaze. Spoon about a teaspoon of glaze over each cookie and use the back of the spoon to spread it out evenly, if necessary. The glaze should be shiny and smooth as it sets on top of the warm cookies.
Step 7: Let the Glaze Set
Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. If you want to take them up a notch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a beautiful finishing touch that adds a little extra sweetness and elegance.
Tips for Perfect Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
- Use parchment paper: This will help prevent your cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup much easier.
- Don’t overbake: These cookies are best when they’re soft and tender, so keep a close eye on them as they bake. They will continue to cook slightly on the hot baking sheet even after you take them out of the oven.
- Make it your own: While the glaze is what makes these cookies special, feel free to customize them to your taste! Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced twist, or fold in some chopped pecans for added texture and flavor. You could even drizzle some melted chocolate on top for a rich, decadent finish.
- Store leftovers properly: If you have any cookies left over (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies and glaze separately for up to a month, then thaw and assemble when ready to enjoy.
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Every Occasion
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are versatile and suitable for all kinds of occasions. They’re perfect for:
- Holiday Gatherings: With their rich, buttery flavor, these cookies make an excellent addition to your holiday cookie platter. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter, they will shine on any festive table.
- Bake Sales: These cookies are the perfect treat to bring to a bake sale. They’re easy to make in large batches and will definitely stand out from the crowd with their unique look and flavor.
- Gift Giving: Wrapped in a decorative box or tin, Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies make a delightful homemade gift. Who wouldn’t love receiving a batch of these buttery, sweet treats?
- Afternoon Tea or Coffee: Treat yourself to a cup of tea or coffee and a few of these cookies for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. The combination of the soft cookie and sweet glaze pairs beautifully with your favorite beverage.
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies: A Timeless Classic
Once you try Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a staple in many kitchens. It’s a simple, no-fuss dessert that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and easy to follow. The result is a batch of cookies that are soft, buttery, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, homemade dessert, give these Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies a try. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Enjoy!
Share the Love: Pin or Share This Recipe
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board, share it on social media, or email it to someone who might love a new baking project. The more, the merrier when it comes to these delicious cookies!