If you’re craving a cookie that combines the warm charm of Southern baking with the melt-in-your-mouth richness of butter cake, this Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Inspired by the classic Kentucky Butter Cake, these cookies are decadently soft, perfectly sweet, and finished with a simple, rich glaze that elevates them from everyday treat to irresistible indulgence.

This recipe is perfect for home bakers looking to create a crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a new cookie to add to your baking rotation, or simply want a comforting bite of nostalgia, these cookies deliver big flavor in a simple package.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies offer all the beloved qualities of their cake counterpart: buttery richness, a tender crumb, and that classic vanilla glaze that seeps into every nook and cranny. However, this cookie version is quicker to prepare and easier to share—no slicing required!

These cookies are:

Quick and easy with minimal prep
Made from pantry-friendly ingredients
Soft, chewy, and bursting with buttery goodness
Ideal for gifting, parties, or everyday snacking
A beautiful balance of old-fashioned charm and modern convenience

If you’re someone who appreciates soft cookies with a slightly crisp edge and a glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness, this recipe was made for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

1 box of white cake mix
2 eggs, whisked
⅓ cup of melted butter

For the Glaze:

¼ cup of butter
½ cup of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of water
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

These few ingredients come together to create cookies that taste like you’ve been baking all day—without the hours in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows it to come up to temperature while you prepare your cookie dough, ensuring even baking from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, whisked eggs, and melted butter. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky—perfect for shaping into cookies.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon, portion the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even baking.

Step 4: Bake

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake—these cookies should stay soft and buttery inside.

Step 5: Cool Slightly

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This rest time helps the cookies set and makes them easier to move without breaking.

Making the Glaze

While the cookies cool, prepare your glaze.

In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup butter over low heat.
Add ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon water. Stir continuously until the sugar has dissolved.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Once the cookies have cooled slightly but are still warm, drizzle the glaze over the tops using a spoon or pastry brush. The warmth of the cookies will help the glaze seep in slightly, giving that signature “butter cake” effect.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies, you’ll need:

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or spoon for stirring
Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Parchment paper
Baking sheet
Wire cooling rack
Small saucepan (for glaze)

Simple tools. Incredible results.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use room temperature eggs to help the dough mix evenly.
Don’t overbake—these cookies are meant to be soft and chewy. A slightly underdone center is ideal.
Add a dash of nutmeg or almond extract to the glaze for a flavor twist.
Use yellow or butter cake mix instead of white cake mix for a richer, golden color and deeper flavor.
For a holiday feel, sprinkle the glazed cookies with powdered sugar or festive colored sprinkles.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few fun ways to make it your own:

Lemon Butter Cake Cookies

Use lemon cake mix and add lemon zest to the glaze for a bright, tangy version.

Brown Butter Twist

Replace regular melted butter with browned butter for a rich, nutty flavor.

Glaze Swap

Skip the glaze and dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.

Add-Ins

Try mixing in white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or even a bit of shredded coconut for texture and added flavor.

How to Store Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer parchment or wax paper between cookies to prevent sticking if glazed.

Refrigerator

For extended freshness, refrigerate the cookies. They’ll last up to 7 days, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezer

Freeze unglazed cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Add the glaze fresh after thawing for best results.

Suggested Pairings

These cookies are perfect on their own, but here are a few tasty pairings:

Drink Pairings: A cup of Earl Grey tea, vanilla latte, cold brew coffee, or a glass of milk complements the buttery richness.
Dessert Table: Pair with fruit tarts, chocolate truffles, or a lemon pie for a full dessert spread.
Holiday Treat Box: Combine with shortbread cookies, fudge squares, and candied nuts for gifting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed?

Yes! If you prefer to avoid boxed mixes, you can use a homemade white or yellow cake mix. Just be sure to match the dry ingredient ratios.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free white or yellow cake mix, and double-check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I skip the glaze?

You can—but the glaze is what gives these cookies their signature “butter cake” finish. If skipping, consider adding a powdered sugar dusting or buttercream drizzle instead.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

Look for lightly golden edges. The centers will still look a bit soft but will firm up as they cool.

Are these cookies freezer-friendly?

Yes, but freeze them unglazed. Add the glaze after thawing for best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are the ultimate comfort treat—rich, soft, buttery, and glazed to perfection. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just your own sweet tooth, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

They’re easy enough for beginner bakers, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Once you make them, don’t be surprised if you’re asked for the recipe again and again!

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies Recipe: Rich, Buttery, and Irresistibly Soft