Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies How to Make the Best Batch Ever

There’s something irresistible about a soft, buttery cookie that melts in your mouth. If you love the rich, moist texture of a classic Kentucky butter cake, you’re going to adore these Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies. They bring all the indulgent flavors of the beloved Southern dessert into a perfectly portioned, golden-brown treat.

With a delicate crumb, a hint of vanilla, and a luscious buttery glaze, these cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy. Whether you’re baking for a summer gathering, a holiday treat, or just because you crave something sweet, this easy homemade recipe is sure to become a favorite. Ready to bake up a batch of pure comfort? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love soft, buttery cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. Inspired by the classic Southern butter cake, these cookies are rich, moist, and topped with a delicate buttery glaze that soaks into every bite.

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Incredibly Soft and Buttery – Each cookie is infused with deep, rich butter flavor and a tender crumb.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straitforward process make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfectly Glazed – The warm cookies absorb a luscious butter glaze, adding extra moisture and sweetness.
• Ideal for Any Occasion – Whether you’re baking for a summer party, a holiday dessert tray, or a cozy night in, these cookies always impress.
• Better Than Store-Bought – Enjoy a homemade version that rivals (or even surpasses) bakery cookies, including the popular Crumbl version.

With their irresistible texture and indulgent flavor, these cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.

Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

These cookies are made with simple pantry staples, yet they deliver an incredibly rich and buttery flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich, tender texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Enhances moisture and gives a slight caramel undertone.
• 2 large eggs – Provides structure and a soft crumb.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The base for a soft yet sturdy cookie.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly while keeping them dense.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery flavor.

For the Buttery Glaze

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Gives the glaze its signature richness.
• ½ cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet drizzle.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses the glaze with extra flavor.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency.

Pro Tips for the Best Cookies

• Use high-quality butter – Since butter is the star ingredient, opt for real unsalted butter for the best flavor.
• Room temperature ingredients – Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth, well-mixed dough.
• Don’t overmix – Overworking the dough can make the cookies dense instead of soft and tender.
• Chill for thicker cookies – If you prefer a thicker, more cake-like texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

With these carefully chosen ingredients and expert tips, you’re well on your way to baking the most irresistible Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies!

How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

Bringing the rich, buttery flavor of a classic Kentucky butter cake into soft, bite-sized cookies is easier than you think. Follow these steps to create perfectly tender cookies with a luscious buttery glaze.

First step: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps create a soft, tender texture.
2. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients – Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended. Add vanilla extract for a warm depth of flavor.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Graduly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense cookies.

Step two: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parment paper.
2. Portion the Dough – Scoop out evenly sized balls of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Place them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for spreading.
3. Bake Until Golden – Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden while the centers remain soft.
4. Cool Completely – Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttery Glaze

1. Melt the Butter – In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until smooth.
2. Whisk in Sugar and Vanilla – Stir in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
3. Drizzle Over Cookies – While the cookies are slightly warm, spoon the glaze over them, allowing it to soak in for that signature buttery sweetness.

Tips for the Best Cookies

• For a softer texture, slightly underbake – The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
• Chill the dough for thicker cookies – Refrigerate for 30 minutes before baking for a more cake-like texture.
• Enhance the glaze – A second drizzle once the first layer sets will add extra richness.

These cookies are the perfect combination of soft, buttery, and lightly sweet—just like the classic cake but in a handheld form!

Substitutions & Variations

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are already packed with rich, buttery flavor, but there are plenty of ways to customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for ingredient swaps or fun flavor twists, here are some great options.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Butter Alternatives – If you’re out of butter or need a dairy-free option, swap it with an equal amount of vegan butter or refined coconut oil for a similar texture.
• Flour Variations – All-purpose flour works best, but for a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Almond flour can also work, but it will make the cookies more delicate.
• Sugar Swaps – Want a deeper flavor? Replace half the granulated sugar with light brown sugar for extra moisture and a caramel-like taste. Coconut sugar is another great natural substitute.
• Milk Options for the Glaze – Regular milk works well, but you can use heavy cream for a richer glaze or almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Flavor Variations

• Cinnamon Spice – Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist.
• Lemon Butter Cookies – Replace the vanilla extract with lemon extract and add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Almond Infusion – Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to give the cookies a nutty, bakery-style taste.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Instead of the buttery glaze, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cookies for a decadent touch.

Texture Adjustments

• Thicker Cookies – Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and create a more cake-like texture.
• Crispier Edges – Bake for an extra 1-2 minutes to achieve golden, crispy edges while keeping the center soft.
• Extra Moist Cookies – Add an extra egg yolk for a richer, softer bite.

No matter how you tweak the recipe, these cookies will maintain their signature buttery flavor while offering new and exciting variations. Experiment and find your favorite version!

Storage & Reheating

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies taste best fresh, but with proper storage, you can keep them soft and flavorful for days. Whether you want to enjoy them throughout the week or prepare them in advance, here’s how to store and reheat them properly.

Storing at Room Temperature

• Let the cookies cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking.
• Store at room temperature for up to 4 days in a cool, dry place.

Refrigeration (For Longer Freshness)

• If you need to keep them fresh beyond a few days, store them in the refrigerator.
• Use an airtight container to maintain their moisture and prevent absorbing fridge odors.
• Allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly for the best texture.

Freezing for Extended Storage

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies freeze well, making them a great make-ahead treat.

• To freeze baked cookies: Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers. Store for up to 3 months.
• To freeze unbaked dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a frazer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw slightly and bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes if needed.

Reheating for the Fresh-Baked Taste

• Microwave: Warm a cookie for 5-10 seconds for a soft, just-baked texture.
• Oven: Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes for a freshly baked feel.
• Room Temperature: If frozen, let cookies thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy buttery, tender cookies anytime, whether fresh from the oven or saved for later!

What to Serve with Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering, holiday party, or just treating yourself, here are some perfect pairings.

Beverage Pairings

• Coffee & Espresso – The rich, buttery notes of the cookies balance beautifully with the bold flavors of black coffee or a creamy latte.
• Milk – A classic choice! The creamy texture of whole or almond milk enhances the soft, cake-like crumb.
• Tea – Pair with Earl Grey or chamomile for a cozy, delicate contrast to the cookie’s sweetness.
• Vanilla or Bourbon Milkshake – A fun, indulgent treat that brings out the vanilla and buttery flavors in the cookies.

Dessert Combinations

• Ice Cream Sandwiches – Sandwich a scoop of vanilla bean or butter pecan ice cream between two cookies for a decadent summer dessert.
• Fresh Berries & Whipped Cream – The tartness of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries cuts through the rich, buttery sweetness.
• Chocolate Ganache Drizzle – A warm chocolate drizzle over the cookies adds a touch of indulgence.

Savory Pairings for Balance

• Salted Nuts – Serve alongside roasted pecans or almonds for a contrast of flavors and textures.
• Cheese Board Addition – Mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone pair surprisingly well with the buttery richness of these cookies.

By pairing Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies with the right drinks and complementary flavors, you can enhance their melt-in-your-mouth texture and create a memorable treat for any occasion!

More Summer Dessert Recipes You’ll Love

If you love the rich, buttery flavor of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, you’ll want to try these other summer-perfect treats. From fruity delights to classic Southern favorites, these desserts are sure to be a hit at picnics, barbecues, or just a cozy night at home.

1. Lemon Blueberry Crumble Bars

A refreshing combination of tart lemon and juicy blueberries, these buttery crumble bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Ideal for summer gatherings or a light afternoon treat.

2. Peach Cobbler with Buttery Biscuit Topping

Nothing says summer like fresh peaches! This easy peach cobbler features a golden, buttery biscuit crust that pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced fruit filling. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate Southern dessert.

3. Classic Southern Banana Pudding

Layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and vanilla wafers make this nostalgic dessert a favorite at any summer cookout. It’s easy to make ahead and always a crowd-pleaser.

4. Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

A no-bake trat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! Layer fluffy shortcake pieces, fresh strawberries, and sweet whipped cream in a trifle dish for a show-stopping summer dessert.

5. Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

If you love the buttery richness of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, these brown butter pecan cookies will be your next favorite. Toasted pecans and nutty brown butter create a deep, caramel-like flavor in every bite.

6. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven! These bars combine rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a simple, layered treat that’s easy to whip up in minutes.

These summer desserts bring a variety of flavors and textures, from fruity and refreshing to rich and indulgent. Try them alongside Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies for a dessert spread that will impress at any gathering!

FAQs

What is a Kentucky butter cake cookie?

A Kentucky Butter Cake Cookie is a soft, buttery cookie inspired by the classic Kentucky Butter Cake. These cookies have a rich vanilla flavor, a tender cake-like texture, and are often finished with a buttery glaze for extra moisture and sweetness.

Is Kentucky butter cake good?

Yes! Kentucky Butter Cake is beloved for its moist texture, rich buttery flavor, and lightly sweet vanilla glaze. It’s a classic Southern dessert that pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or a scoop of ice cream.

Is Kentucky butter cake good Crumbl?

Crumbl’s version of Kentucky Butter Cake is a popular choice among cookie lovers. It features a soft, thick, and buttery cookie topped with a sweet glaze, mimicking the traditional cake’s signature flavor.

Why is it called a butter cake?

The name comes from the key ingredient—butter! Butter cake recipes rely on a generous amount of butter to create a moist, tender crumb and a rich flavor that sets them apart from other cakes.

What is the difference between cookies and butter cookies?

Regular cookies can have various textures and flavors, often featuring mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Butter cookies, on the other hand, have a higher butter content, giving them a denser, richer texture and a melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Why are they called butter cookies?

Butter cookies get their name from their simple yet rich composition. With butter as the star ingredient, these cookies have a smooth, crumbly texture and a delicate sweetness that makes them irresistible.