Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
These cookies capture the rich, buttery flavor and moist texture of traditional Kentucky butter cake, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 2.5 cups 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour Be sure to use fresh, high-quality flour.
- 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar Sweeten things up with standard granulated sugar.
- 0.5 cup ½ cup powdered sugar Adds a lovely finish and sweetness to the cookies.
- 1 cup 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Always use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- 2 large 2 large eggs Ensure they're at room temperature for better emulsification.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla extract for deeper flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp butter extract Optional, boosts that buttery flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp baking powder Ensure freshness for best rising capability.
- 0.25 tsp ¼ tsp salt Enhances overall flavors.
For the glaze
- 0.5 cup ½ cup unsalted butter Again, go for unsalted.
- 0.75 cup ¾ cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the glaze.
- 0.25 cup ¼ cup water Helps to dissolve the sugar.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds flavor to the glaze.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Batter Creation
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until fluffy and light, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and butter extract (if using), mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Shaping
- Form uniform balls of dough (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on prepared baking sheets with ample space in between.
- Gently flatten each ball with your fingertips or a smooth utensil.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye out for golden edges and soft centers. Allow them to rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to cooling racks.
Glaze Construction
- In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in granulated sugar and water, ensuring the sugar fully dissolves before removing from heat. Mix in the vanilla extract to create a silky glaze.
Finishing
- While cookies are still warm, generously brush or drizzle the glaze over the tops.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks to let the glaze solidify.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Chilling the dough ahead of time can help reduce spread.