Recipe for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Made Easy

If you’ve ever fallen in love with the rich, buttery flavor of a classic Kentucky Butter Cake, imagine that same indulgence in a delightful cookie form! Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies offer a perfect blend of moistness, buttery richness, and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

These cookies are ideal for any occasion—from casual coffee breaks to holiday gatherings. With their golden edges and soft centers, they bring a nostalgic Southern charm to your cookie jar.

In this detailed recipe, I’ll guide you through every step to make these luscious cookies at home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

So grab your mixing bowls and butter, and let’s bake some sweet Southern joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are more than just cookies—they’re a little bite of Southern hospitality and comfort. Unlike typical cookies, these are inspired by the famous Kentucky Butter Cake, known for its buttery glaze and tender crumb.

The cookies capture that same richness in a convenient, hand-held treat.

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and requires no fancy techniques, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, the cookies stay moist for days thanks to the butter-rich dough and a luscious glaze that’s drizzled on top after baking.

Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies promise a delightful experience with every bite. Plus, they pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• For the Butter Glaze:
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets (two)
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling racks
• Small saucepan (for glaze)
• Whisk or spoon for stirring glaze
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup and even baking.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—usually about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk: With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing for tender cookies.
6. Scoop the dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7. Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but still soft.
8. Prepare the butter glaze: While the cookies bake, melt ½ cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
9. Glaze the cookies: As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, use a spoon to drizzle the warm butter glaze over each cookie. The cookies will absorb the glaze, creating a buttery, moist finish.
10. Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For best results, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting the recipe. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and even baking.

• Make it extra moist: Brush the cookies lightly with extra butter glaze after cooling for an even richer experience.
• Add nuts: Mix in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch.
• Flavor twist: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty aroma.
• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are wonderfully versatile. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

They also pair beautifully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.

For gatherings, arrange these cookies on a decorative platter alongside a selection of fresh fruit or simple finger sandwiches. You can even drizzle a little extra glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch.

If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to complement your baking adventures, check out these favorites:

• Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide
• Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals
• Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas

Conclusion

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional Southern butter cake, offering the perfect balance of buttery richness and tender crumb in a portable cookie form. This recipe is both accessible and rewarding, delivering bakery-quality treats right from your home kitchen.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create batches of these moist, flavorful cookies that are sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies bring warmth and joy in every bite.

Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make the recipe your own.

For more recipes that bring comfort and flavor to your table, explore our wide range of delicious ideas and get inspired to cook with heart every day!

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