Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic Southern dessert. These cookies embody the rich, buttery goodness of a traditional Kentucky Butter Cake in a bite-sized form. With the convenience of a cake mix as the base, these cookies come together effortlessly and are showered with a luscious glaze that adds a delightful sweetness. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, the straightforward preparation process, and why Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies have earned their place as a beloved treat that captures the essence of Southern hospitality and flavor.
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies shine with their simplicity, utilizing readily available ingredients for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures:
For the Cookies:
- White Cake Mix (1 box): Forms the base of the cookies, providing structure and sweetness.
- Eggs (2, whisked): Bind the cookie dough together and contribute moisture.
- Butter (1/3 cup, melted): Infuses the cookies with buttery richness and flavor.
For the Glaze:
- Butter (1/4 cup): Adds a luxurious buttery note to the glaze.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the glaze to perfection.
- Water (1 tbsp): Balances the consistency of the glaze.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the glaze’s flavor profile.
Creating Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies is a delightful process, blending together simplicity and Southern charm. Follow these easy steps to make this irresistible treat:
Preparing the Cookies:
- Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Mix Cookie Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, whisked eggs, and melted butter. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The dough will be thick but wonderfully buttery.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon, scoop portions of cookie dough onto the prepared parchment-lined cookie sheet. Ensure the cookies are evenly spaced to allow room for spreading.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the cookies for 7-8 minutes until they are just set but not overly browned. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the cookie sheet for 4-5 minutes to ensure they set properly before transferring them to a cooling rack. Repeat this process until all the dough is used.
Creating the Glaze: 5. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the glaze ingredients—butter, granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium-low heat while whisking continuously. The goal is to dissolve the sugar, which usually takes about 4 minutes.
- Glaze the Cookies: Once the glaze is ready, spoon a teaspoon of it over each cookie, allowing it to spread naturally. If needed, gently spread the glaze with a spoon to cover the surface evenly.
Finishing Touch and Storage: 7. Let the Glaze Set: Allow the glaze to set, and once it’s no longer tacky, sprinkle the cookies with powdered sugar for a delightful finishing touch.
- Storage: Keep your Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture.
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the magic of Southern-inspired flavors. These cookies take the essence of a beloved dessert and transform it into delightful bites that are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
With their buttery richness, sweet glaze, and cake-like texture, they are a true indulgence. Whether served as a sweet treat for gatherings, gifts for friends and family, or a delightful snack, these cookies embody the warm hospitality and flavors of the South. So, embrace the simplicity and savor the flavor of Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, a dessert that captures the heart of Southern culinary tradition.