Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Kentucky butter cake cookies! They’re an absolute dream come true for anyone who loves rich, buttery flavors. I stumbled upon this recipe during a family reunion in Kentucky, where my grandma would whip up the most delightful butter cake. Now, I’ve transformed that classic into cookie form, and trust me, they’ll make your heart sing! The moment you bite into one, you’re greeted with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels like a warm hug from home. These cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, but I won’t judge if you want to keep them all to yourself!
Ingredients for Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up a batch of Kentucky butter cake cookies that will have everyone asking for more:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
Make sure the butter is nice and soft—that’s the secret to a creamy batter and deliciously tender cookies. And don’t forget to grab the buttermilk; it adds that extra richness that makes these cookies truly special!
How to Prepare Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
Alright, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of Kentucky butter cake cookies that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each part with all the love and care it deserves!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want those cookies to bake evenly and become golden perfection.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Trust me, the fluffiness is key!
- Now, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air and keeps your cookies light.
- Next, stir in the fragrant vanilla extract. Seriously, just take a moment to inhale that beautiful scent!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps ensure your dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overdo it! You want the dough to be soft and a bit lumpy.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop generous amounts of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a bit of space between each scoop. They’ll spread a little as they bake.
- Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft—don’t worry, they’ll firm up as they cool!
- Once you take them out, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This little rest is crucial for the perfect texture!
And there you have it! You’re just moments away from enjoying these delightful Kentucky butter cake cookies. I can’t wait for you to taste them!
Why You’ll Love Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
- They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- The rich, buttery flavor is simply irresistible and will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels like a warm hug.
- They’re fantastic for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in with family.
- They can be made ahead of time and freeze beautifully, so you can always have some on hand.
- The irresistible aroma wafting from your oven will create a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home.
- Each cookie is a delightful reminder of the classic Kentucky butter cake, bringing a taste of tradition to your table.
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your Kentucky butter cake cookies turn out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your baking game!
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and tender!
- Chill the Dough (If Needed): If your dough feels too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. The edges should be golden brown while the centers stay soft. If they look done at 12 minutes, pull them out!
- Let Them Cool: Don’t rush the cooling process. Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up perfectly!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for a fun twist on the classic recipe!
- Keep an Eye on the Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy. They can last for about a week on the counter or up to three months in the freezer!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking up the most delicious Kentucky butter cake cookies! Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know many of you are curious about the nutritional side of these scrumptious Kentucky butter cake cookies. Here’s a rough estimate to help you out. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a good ballpark figure:
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
So, while these cookies are definitely a sweet treat, they’re also a delightful way to indulge without going overboard. Enjoy every bite, and remember, everything in moderation!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these delightful Kentucky butter cake cookies? Don’t worry—I’ve got answers for you! Here are some common inquiries that may pop up as you bake and enjoy these delicious treats:
Can I freeze Kentucky butter cake cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature!
How should I store the cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
For sure! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for a bit before scooping and baking, so it’s easier to work with.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to add a fun twist. Want a hint of spice? Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Get creative and make these cookies your own!
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading too much while baking, it may be due to the dough being too warm or using melted butter instead of softened butter. Make sure you’re using softened butter and not melted, and if the dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking!
Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk, but for the best flavor and texture, I recommend sticking with buttermilk if you can. If you don’t have any, you can make a quick version by mixing milk with a little vinegar or lemon juice—just let it sit for a few minutes before using!
I hope this FAQ section helps clarify any questions you have about your Kentucky butter cake cookies. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve baked up a delicious batch of Kentucky butter cake cookies, let’s talk about how to keep them fresh and tasty! Proper storage is key to enjoying these delightful treats for days to come.
To store your cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and delicious for about a week—though I doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the fridge for a few hours or let them sit out at room temperature until they’re thawed.
If you need to reheat your cookies for that fresh-baked feel, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-10 minutes. This will help them regain their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the smell of warm cookies wafting through your kitchen!
So whether you’re saving some for later or indulging in a warm treat, these storage and reheating tips will ensure your Kentucky butter cake cookies stay delightful and delicious!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, let’s talk about how to take your Kentucky butter cake cookies to the next level! These cookies are delicious all on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can truly elevate your treat experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that I absolutely love:
- Milk or Buttermilk: Nothing beats a classic glass of cold milk alongside your cookies! Buttermilk adds a nice tang that complements the buttery sweetness perfectly.
- Coffee or Tea: If you’re looking for something warm, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or your favorite tea makes a lovely pairing. The rich flavors of the cookies shine even more with a sip of something warm.
- Ice Cream: For a fun dessert twist, try serving these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The melt-in-your-mouth cookie combined with creamy ice cream is pure bliss!
- Fruit Compote: A dollop of homemade fruit compote or preserves on the side adds a fresh burst of flavor. Think strawberries or blueberries—so tasty!
- Whipped Cream: A generous swirl of whipped cream on top or on the side can take your cookies to dessert-level heaven. It’s light and adds a delightful creaminess.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of decadence, drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies just before serving. It adds a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of flavor!
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or occasion, and get ready to impress your family and friends. Trust me, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these Kentucky butter cake cookies! Happy serving!
Print
Kentucky butter cake cookies: 7 Heartfelt Delights to Bake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Kentucky butter cake cookies with a rich buttery flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
- Mix until just combined.
- Scoop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.
- Adjust the baking time for smaller or larger cookies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: kentucky butter cake cookies, cookies, dessert, baking
