Description
These Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a delightful treat inspired by the classic bourbon-infused cake. Soft and slightly chewy cookies are given a rich, buttery glaze, making them irresistibly decadent and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Butter Glaze
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the rising agent and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step helps incorporate air into the dough for a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract to infuse the dough with flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Stir in 1 tablespoon milk until the dough comes together with a soft but not sticky consistency.
- Form the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookie edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft and chewy.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cookies bake, melt 1/2 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add Vanilla to Glaze: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the glaze for a rich, aromatic finish.
- Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have baked and cooled slightly, generously coat each cookie with the warm butter glaze using a spoon or pastry brush. Allow the cookies to absorb the glaze for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring a perfect shiny, buttery coating.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better dough texture.
- Do not overbake cookies to maintain their soft and chewy centers.
- The butter glaze adds a rich, buttery sweetness reminiscent of traditional Kentucky Butter Cake.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For a boozy twist, you can add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze while simmering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
