Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a scrumptious, bite-sized take on the classic Kentucky Butter Cake. These cookies combine the ease of using a box cake mix with the indulgent richness of a buttery glaze, creating a soft, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a box cake mix as the base, these cookies come together effortlessly, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute treats.
- Buttery Goodness: The rich buttery glaze takes these cookies to the next level, adding a decadent homemade touch.
- Versatile: These cookies are ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a family dessert, a potluck, or just a sweet treat with your coffee.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their soft texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor make them an instant hit with kids and adults alike.
Variations
- Lemon Butter Cake Cookies: Use a lemon cake mix and add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the glaze for a bright, zesty twist.
- Chocolate Butter Cake Cookies: Substitute white cake mix with chocolate cake mix and use cocoa powder in the glaze for a chocolate-lover’s dream.
- Spiced Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for fall.
- Nutty Version: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added crunch and nuttiness.
Substitutes
- Butter Substitute: Use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Vanilla Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract or rum extract for a different flavor profile.
- Cake Mix: If white cake mix isn’t available, yellow cake mix or butter pecan cake mix works well too.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If glazed, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to a week to keep the glaze fresh.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely and glaze before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Vanilla Matters: Use high-quality vanilla extract for the glaze to enhance the flavor.
- Sticky Dough Fix: If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before scooping.
- Glaze Coolness: Ensure the cookies are fully cooled before applying the glaze to avoid melting.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon snack, or serve them as a dessert to end a meal on a sweet, buttery note.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies without a glaze?
Yes! The cookies are delicious on their own. The glaze adds extra sweetness and richness, but they’re perfectly soft and buttery without it.
2. What if my cookie dough is too sticky to handle?
If the dough is sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before scooping. This will make it easier to shape and portion.
3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before drizzling over the cookies.
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 2 large eggs whisked
- ⅓ cup melted butter
For the buttery glaze:
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures the cookies bake evenly.
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, whisked eggs, and melted butter. Mix until fully incorporated. The dough will be thick, perfect for shaping cookies.
Portion the Dough:
- Use a medium cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon to drop portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Bake the Cookies:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7–8 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges. Keep an eye on them to ensure they stay soft in the center.
Cool the Cookies:
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 4–5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Repeat the process until all the dough is baked.
