Pin it
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies pack that melt-in-your-mouth richness of the beloved Southern cake into a soft chewy treat with a decadent butter vanilla glaze. When I want a fuss-free dessert that reminds everyone of home baked comforts these cookies are always the first to vanish from the table.
I first made these cookies for a bake sale and watched as they were one of the first treats to disappear. Now whenever I want something both classic and easy these are my go-to.
Ingredients
- White cake mix: gives fluffiness and a tender crumb look for a brand with a rich vanilla aroma
- Eggs: provide structure and keep the cookies soft use large eggs for best results
- Butter: brings the necessary richness choose high-quality unsalted for the best flavor
- Granulated sugar: adds that iconic sweet crust look for fine organic sugar if available
- Water: creates the right dough consistency filtered water is best for clean taste
- Vanilla: enhances everything with its warm sweetness pure extract is worth it for depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Heat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and spread.
- Make the Dough:
- Combine the cake mix with whisked eggs and melted butter in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until no dry streaks remain and you have a thick cookie dough.
- Form and Bake:
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop place even mounds of dough on the baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake each tray for about seven to eight minutes. The cookies should look set at the edges but still soft in the center for that chewy texture.
- Cool the Cookies:
- Let the cookies rest on the baking tray for four to five minutes. This helps them firm up before moving to a wire rack to cool completely which prevents breaking.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan melt butter over medium low heat. Whisk in sugar water and vanilla letting everything gently bubble for about four minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Glaze the Cookies:
- While the cookies are cool but not cold spoon a teaspoon of glaze onto each one gently spreading to the edges. Allow the glaze to set up for a few minutes before serving.
Pin it
There is something magical about the vanilla glaze soaking into the warm cookies. The first time I dusted them with powdered sugar my daughter declared them the best cookies ever and now it is a tradition to add just a touch before serving.
Storage Tips
Keep your Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Layering parchment between them keeps the glaze tidy. For longer storage freeze in a well sealed freezer bag and let thaw at room temperature before eating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find white cake mix try yellow cake mix for a slightly deeper flavor. Brown butter can give an added nuttiness if you want extra richness. Almond extract is a lovely twist if you are out of vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies on a pretty tray at your next coffee get together or family dinner. They are perfect paired with fresh fruit for balance. Warm them slightly to bring out the buttery aroma a minute in the microwave does wonders.
Pin it
Cultural or Historical Context
Kentucky Butter Cake is a staple at Southern gatherings celebrated for its simple buttery glory. Transforming it into cookies makes it accessible for every day cravings without needing a special occasion or pan. These cookies blend the best of tradition with the ease of modern baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use yellow cake mix instead of white?
Yes, yellow cake mix can be used for a deeper buttery flavor and color. The texture will remain soft and chewy.
- → How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
They are ready when set at the edges but still slightly soft in the center, typically after 7-8 minutes. Avoid overbaking for best texture.
- → Should the butter be melted or softened?
Melted butter mixes easily with the cake mix and eggs, helping to create a tender, cohesive dough.
- → Is the glaze necessary?
The glaze adds sweetness and a glossy finish, but you can skip it or dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a simpler treat.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them moist and flavorful.
- → Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, bake and cool the cookies and freeze them without glaze. Glaze after thawing for best results.