Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, offering a rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. These cookies, with their soft texture and decadent glaze, are sure to become a favorite treat for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in as a special treat just for yourself.
Ingredients:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
Glaze:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp vanilla
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, whisked eggs, and melted butter. Mix the ingredients together until they are completely incorporated. Note that the dough will be thick.
- Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon, scoop the cookie dough onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 7-8 minutes. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the cookie sheet for 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Repeat the baking process until all of the cookie dough is used.
For the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine the butter, granulated sugar, water, and vanilla for the glaze.
- Cook the glaze mixture over medium-low heat until the sugar is dissolved, which usually takes about 4 minutes. Be sure to whisk the mixture continuously during this process.
- Spoon a teaspoon of the glaze over each cookie and spread it out as needed.
- Allow the glaze to set, then sprinkle the cookies with powdered sugar.
- Store your Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips:
- Ensure that the glaze is not too hot when spooning it over the cookies to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating a hint of lemon zest into the glaze.
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors to create variations of these delicious cookies.
Conclusion:
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of butter cake with the convenience of cookies. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delectable treats in no time. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Indulge in the buttery goodness of these cookies and treat yourself to a taste of Kentucky’s finest culinary delights.
- Can I use any brand of white cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any brand of white cake mix for this recipe. However, keep in mind that different brands may vary slightly in texture and flavor. Choose a brand that you trust and enjoy, and follow the instructions on the box accordingly. - Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe, such as using margarine instead of butter?
While you can technically substitute margarine for butter in this recipe, it may affect the flavor and texture of the cookies. Butter contributes to the rich, buttery flavor that is characteristic of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies. Margarine may alter the taste and texture slightly, so it’s best to stick to using butter for the authentic flavor. - How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done baking when the edges are lightly golden brown and the tops are set. Since oven temperatures can vary, it’s essential to keep an eye on the cookies during baking. Avoid overbaking the cookies, as they can become dry and lose their soft texture. A baking time of 7-8 minutes is typically sufficient, but adjust as needed based on your oven. - Can I freeze the cookies for later use?
Yes, you can freeze Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies for later enjoyment. Allow the cookies to cool completely after baking, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature or gently reheat them in the oven for a few minutes. - Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Allow the glaze to come to room temperature before spooning it over the cookies. If the glaze thickens too much while refrigerated, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a pourable consistency. - How should I store the cookies once they are glazed?
Once the cookies are glazed and the glaze has set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid stacking the cookies on top of each other, as the glaze may stick together. Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking and maintain their freshness. - Can I customize the flavor of the cookies or glaze?
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor of the cookies or glaze by incorporating different extracts, spices, or additions. For example, you can add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, spicy flavor. Alternatively, you can replace the vanilla extract in the glaze with almond or lemon extract for a unique twist. Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your taste preferences. - How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
To prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, make sure the dough is properly chilled before scooping it onto the baking sheet. You can refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet and leave enough space between the cookie dough balls to allow for spreading. Finally, ensure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature to promote even baking.
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Cuisine: American
Description
Inspired by the classic Kentucky Butter Cake, these cookies are buttery, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Finished with a sweet glaze, they’re perfect for any occasion and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Makes about 24 cookies
-
For the cookies:
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon butter extract (optional, for extra buttery flavor)
- 2 1/2 cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
-
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
Make the cookie dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and butter extract (if using). Beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
-
Shape the cookies:
- Roll the dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your palm.
-
Bake the cookies:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly underbaked (they will continue to set as they cool). Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
-
Prepare the glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and water, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves (do not let it boil). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Glaze the cookies:
- While the cookies are still warm, use a pastry brush or spoon to coat each cookie with the warm glaze. Allow the glaze to soak into the cookies. Repeat for a second layer of glaze if desired.
-
Cool and serve:
- Let the cookies cool completely to allow the glaze to set. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra buttery flavor, increase the butter extract to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
- These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- The glaze can be reheated if it starts to thicken before all the cookies are glazed.