Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly simple to make using a cake mix base, yet they taste homemade and decadent. The buttery glaze soaks into the cookies, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, they’re perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.

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 tbsp water
• 1 tsp vanilla

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Cookies:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, whisked eggs, and melted butter. Stir until fully incorporated (the dough will be thick).
3. Shape the cookies: Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a medium-sized cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon.
4. Bake: Bake for 7-8 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
5. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

For the Glaze:

1. Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine butter, sugar, water, and vanilla.
2. Cook the glaze: Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly, until the sugar dissolves (about 4 minutes).
3. Glaze the cookies: Spoon about a teaspoon of glaze over each warm cookie, spreading if needed.
4. Let set: Allow the glaze to set before serving. For an extra touch, sprinkle cookies with powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 18-20 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate cake mix instead of white and add chocolate chips.
• Lemon Zest Delight: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the dough and replace vanilla with lemon extract in the glaze.
• Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Maple Spice: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract and add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
• Coconut Dream: Stir in shredded coconut and use coconut milk in the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Thawing: Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes! Try vanilla, chocolate, or even lemon cake mix for a fun variation.

2. How do I keep my cookies soft?

Avoid overbaking—remove them when the edges are just lightly golden.

3. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

4. What if I don’t have a cookie scoop?

Use a heaping tablespoon to portion the dough.

5. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but the glaze adds a signature buttery sweetness. You can also dust with powdered sugar instead.

6. How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?

Make sure to whisk it constantly while heating to achieve the right consistency.

7. Can I substitute margarine for butter?

You can, but butter provides the best flavor and texture.

8. What should I serve these cookies with?

Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

9. Can I add frosting instead of glaze?

Yes! A buttercream or cream cheese frosting would work well.

10. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a simple yet rich and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. With their buttery texture and sweet glaze, they’ll quickly become a favorite treat in your home. Enjoy them fresh, share with friends, or freeze for later!