Name: Heavenly Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups (310 grams) all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup (225 grams / 8 oz) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar; ½ cup (100 grams) powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp butter extract (optional); 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup (115 grams / 4 oz) unsalted butter; ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar; ¼ cup (60 mL / 2 fl oz) water; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Introduction

These Heavenly Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies bring the rich, buttery flavor of the classic cake into a delightful cookie form. With a soft, tender crumb and a luscious glaze, they are perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. Let’s bake these mouthwatering treats that are sure to become a new favorite.

The image shows eight round cookies on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a golden-brown color with a soft and slightly crumbly texture. The cookies are topped with a light cream-colored glaze being poured over one cookie in the center by a woman's hand holding a spoon. Powdered sugar is lightly dusted over the cookies, adding a snowy white contrast to the golden cookies and creamy glaze. The glaze appears smooth and shiny, creating a thick layer on top of the cookie in the middle. The cookies are arranged evenly, filling the frame with a warm, homemade feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ½ cups (310 grams) all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup (225 grams / 8 oz) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

½ cup (100 grams) powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp butter extract (optional)

1 tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

For the glaze:

½ cup (115 grams / 4 oz) unsalted butter
¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
¼ cup (60 mL / 2 fl oz) water
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to combine the dry ingredients.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both the granulated and powdered sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and butter extract if using, until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up (optional but recommended for easier handling).

Step 7: Scoop the dough onto a lined cookie sheet, spacing the cookies evenly apart.

Step 8: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden but the centers remain soft.

Step 9: While the cookies bake, prepare the glaze by melting ½ cup unsalted butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the granulated sugar and water, then bring to a gentle boil.

Step 10: Remove the cookies from the oven and, while still warm, dip or drizzle them with the warm glaze. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and makes scooping easier.

Using butter extract enhances the buttery flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.

For extra texture, gently fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts before chilling.

Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

FAQs

Can I make the cookies dairy-free?

These cookies rely heavily on butter for their signature flavor and texture, but you can try substituting with a vegan butter alternative. Keep in mind the taste and texture may differ slightly.

Why does the glaze sometimes become grainy?

To avoid graininess, ensure the sugar fully dissolves as you whisk the glaze and bring it to a gentle boil without rushing. Stir constantly and use medium heat for best results.