When it comes to comfort food, few things evoke nostalgia quite like a warm, freshly baked cookie. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that embodies not just deliciousness but also cherished memories from my own kitchen. Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a slice of tradition and a testament to the joy of baking. These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Kentucky Butter Cake, offering a soft, buttery bite that melts in your mouth, complemented by a sweet vanilla glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of baking together every holiday season. My grandmother, a master of sweet treats, would often whip up a batch of her famous butter cake, filling our home with the irresistible scent of vanilla and caramelized sugar. As a child, I would eagerly watch her prepare the cake, fascinated by the alchemy of simple ingredients transforming into something so magical. This recipe for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies is a nod to those fond memories, offering a simpler way to enjoy the rich flavors of butter cake in a delightful, bite-sized form.
Let me guide you through the process of creating these delectable cookies that are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, a family get-together, or simply craving a treat, these cookies are a surefire way to spread joy and indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 box white cake mix
2 eggs, whisked
1/3 cup butter, melted
For the Glaze:
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cookie Dough
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out with that perfect golden hue.
Mix the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, combine one box of white cake mix with the two whisked eggs and 1/3 cup of melted butter. Stir the mixture until completely incorporated. The dough will be thick, but that’s perfectly normal. This thickness is what gives the cookies their delightful texture.
Scoop the Dough: Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. The parchment paper helps to prevent sticking and ensures that the cookies bake evenly. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 2: Bake the Cookies
Bake the Cookies: Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they should be set but not overly browned. The edges will be slightly golden, while the centers may appear soft.
Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheet for 4 to 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up a bit before transferring them. After cooling slightly, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat the baking process with the remaining dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
Make the Glaze: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over medium-low heat for about 4 minutes, stirring constantly. The goal is to dissolve the sugar completely and create a smooth, glossy glaze.
Add Vanilla: Once the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the glaze, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies.
Glaze the Cookies: Spoon a teaspoon of the warm glaze over each cookie, spreading it evenly if needed. The glaze will set as it cools, creating a sweet, shiny finish on each cookie. If you prefer, you can drizzle the glaze instead of spreading it.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Add Powdered Sugar: Once the glaze has set, you can sprinkle the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a decorative finish. This step is optional but adds a lovely contrast to the glossy glaze.
Store the Cookies: Keep the Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them, and they’ll maintain their flavor and texture when thawed.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Flavor Variations: For a different twist, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the cookie dough. These additions can enhance the texture and add new flavors to the classic recipe.
2. Glaze Options: If you’re not a fan of vanilla, try substituting other extracts like almond or lemon for a unique flavor profile. You can also experiment with flavored liqueurs or syrups in the glaze.
3. Dietary Adjustments: To make the cookies dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a non-dairy milk alternative. You can also opt for an egg substitute if needed.
4. Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are more than just a delicious treat—they are a heartfelt nod to a cherished family tradition. Their rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweet vanilla glaze creates a cookie that’s both comforting and indulgent. The simplicity of the recipe means that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results, while the end product promises to delight and satisfy.
Baking these cookies not only fills your home with an irresistible aroma but also creates an opportunity to share a piece of your culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed as a family treat, a gift for loved ones, or a sweet addition to a holiday spread, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home, just as they have in mine. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the comforting, nostalgic flavors of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies.
