Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Buttery Bliss : The rich, buttery flavor shines through in every bite.
- Soft & Chewy Texture : These cookies are perfectly soft, with slightly crisp edges and a gooey center.
- Sweet Glaze Magic : The sticky butter glaze soaks into the cookies, making them extra moist and flavorful.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for Gifting : These cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them ideal for holiday tins or care packages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 24–30 cookies
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Scoop & Bake
- Use a medium cookie scoop (or tablespoon) to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies will look slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.
Step 4: Make the Butter Glaze
- While the cookies bake, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar, water, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Glaze the Cookies
- As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, use a pastry brush or spoon to generously brush the warm glaze over the tops of the cookies. Make sure to soak each cookie thoroughly—the glaze will seep into the warm cookies, creating a rich, buttery flavor.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why This Recipe Works
- Butter is the Star : Both the cookies and the glaze rely on butter for their rich, indulgent flavor.
- Glaze Soak : The warm glaze melts into the cookies, adding moisture and sweetness that makes them irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients : Everyday pantry staples come together to create a cookie that feels gourmet.
Variations to Try
- Add Nuts : Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Citrus Twist : Add lemon or orange zest to the glaze for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle : Drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed cookies for an extra layer of decadence.
- Spice It Up : Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Mini Cookies : Use a smaller scoop for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or gifting.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overbake : The cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven—they’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Brush Generously : Don’t skimp on the glaze—it’s what makes these cookies truly special!
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with edible flowers for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Serve alongside coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy breakfast treat.
- Party Platter : Pair with other desserts like brownies, cupcakes, or fruit tarts for variety.
Final Thoughts
These Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a celebration of buttery richness and sweet indulgence, offering a dessert that feels comforting yet luxurious. With their soft texture, sticky glaze, and customizable options, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something sweet.
Your turn! Have you ever made cookies inspired by cake before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍯
