Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that melts in your mouth with buttery richness and a dreamy vanilla aroma, you simply have to try Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies. Imagine the soul-warming flavor of classic butter cake, but in the form of a soft, sweet cookie, topped with an irresistible buttery glaze. Each bite is pure comfort—perfect for sharing at potlucks, gifting for holidays, or just enjoying with your afternoon coffee. These cookies are delightfully easy to make and guaranteed to become a new favorite for anyone who loves timeless, satisfying treats.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies is short and sweet, but each component plays a key role in creating the cookie’s plush texture and buttery, nostalgic flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why you can’t skip a single one!

• Yellow cake mix: Makes the dough extra soft and gives the cookies that classic butter cake flavor in minutes.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a decadent melt-in-your-mouth texture; use fresh, high-quality butter for the best results.
• Cream cheese: A secret ingredient for tang and supreme softness; room temperature cream cheese blends in like a dream.
• Large egg: Gives structure and moisture so your cookies don’t crumble.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances that classic buttery cake aroma and adds warmth to every bite.
• For the butter glaze: Butter, granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract create a sweet shell that sinks into the cookies for extra flavor and softness.
• Optional topping: Powdered sugar for dusting adds a bakery-finish and just a touch of extra sweetness.

How to Make Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, softened butter, cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend everything together until you have a smooth, soft dough that’s easy to scoop. Cream cheese is the secret weapon here, making your dough ultra-tender and luscious.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Now, take a tablespoon-sized portion of dough and gently roll it into a ball. Place each cookie dough ball onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them so they have space to spread just a little. Pop your tray into the oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes, just until the edges are barely golden—the centers should still look a bit soft. This ensures every cookie is ultra-tender inside!

Step 3: Cool the Cookies

Once the cookies are done, let them rest on the pan for 5 minutes. This gives them time to set up so they won’t fall apart when you transfer them. Next, move the cookies to a wire rack to let them cool slightly—but not too much! The glaze goes on while they’re still warm.

Step 4: Make the Butter Glaze

While the cookies bake, create the simple yet magical glaze. Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the granulated sugar and water. Let this mixture bubble and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and everything is silky-smooth. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in vanilla extract for that signature Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies aroma.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

While the cookies are still warm, brush or spoon the butter glaze generously over the tops. The warmth helps the cookies soak up that buttery glaze, making them extra tender and flavorful. Allow the cookies to cool completely, then, for a special finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar if you like. Serve with pride (and napkins, since no one can resist going back for seconds!).

How to Serve Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

Garnishes

The classic finish for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies is a flurry of powdered sugar. If you want to get fancy, you can also drizzle a little extra glaze, sprinkle on a hint of nutmeg, or add some edible gold glitter for a festive look. A touch of lemon zest also gives a pop of brightness against the rich glaze.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a tall glass of cold milk. For a dessert platter, serve them alongside fresh berries, whipped cream, or a bowl of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent spread. Their buttery goodness complements lighter fruit flavors and creamy sides.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, stack Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies in a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon, or arrange them in a rustic tin lined with parchment. For parties, display them on a tiered cake stand with other small treats. You can even sandwich them with a swirl of buttercream for a super-decadent cookie creation—so many ways to share and enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. The glaze helps lock in their moisture, so they’ll stay soft and tender—even after a couple of days. Just be sure the cookies are fully cooled before you pack them up.

Freezing

These cookies freeze surprisingly well! Place completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash-freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container with parchment between layers. They’ll stay delicious in the freezer for up to three months. For best results, freeze them before adding powdered sugar, then dust when ready to serve.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, simply let frozen cookies come to room temperature, then give them a quick zap in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This will revive their soft, buttery texture and make that glaze shine once more. Avoid overheating, as it can melt the glaze too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix gives the cookies their signature taste, white or butter cake mix works well too. For a fun twist, try lemon or spice cake mixes and experiment with the glaze’s flavor by adding lemon extract or spices, keeping the Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies concept as a base.

Do I have to use the glaze?

The glaze is what really sets Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies apart, soaking into each cookie to make them extra tender and rich. However, if you prefer them plainer, you can skip it or opt for a light vanilla drizzle or just powdered sugar.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix and check that your other ingredients are all certified gluten-free. The cookies may spread a bit differently, but they’ll still taste delicious and have that classic buttery finish.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Definitely! This is a fantastic recipe to double if you’re feeding a crowd or want extras to freeze. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets, and you may need to bake in batches. The dough holds up well and is easy to scale up.

Can I add mix-ins to the cookie dough?

Of course! Chopped pecans, white chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can make your Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies unique. Add up to 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-in right after making the dough, before shaping and baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving big, buttery flavor in a simple, crowd-pleasing treat, don’t wait another minute—give these Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies a try! Their tender crumb, sweet glaze, and comforting, home-baked taste are guaranteed to earn rave reviews. Happy baking, and enjoy every dreamy bite!

Print