These Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a buttery, soft twist on the classic Kentucky butter cake. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family treat. The addition of pecans adds a delightful crunch, but these cookies are just as delicious without them. Get ready for a sweet indulgence that will melt in your mouth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies bring the buttery goodness of a classic cake into a portable, bite-sized treat. With just a few simple ingredients, they come together quickly and easily. The sugar and butter base creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the optional pecans add a nutty twist. Perfect for cookie lovers and those who appreciate a good buttery dessert, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy and light in color.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
Fold in the chopped pecans, if using.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chip Version: Add a handful of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist on these buttery cookies.
Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for a spiced flavor.
No Nuts: Leave out the pecans for a classic, nut-free version of these cookies.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
Freezing: Freeze the dough in balls and bake as needed for fresh cookies anytime. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the added salt in the recipe. You may want to reduce or omit the added salt.

2. Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work wonderfully as a substitute for pecans.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

4. Can I add frosting to these cookies?

Yes, frosting would be a great addition! A simple vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting would pair perfectly with the buttery flavor of these cookies.

5. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer works just as well for this recipe, as long as you beat the ingredients until they are smooth and fluffy.

6. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when you first remove them from the oven.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

8. Can I add other flavorings to the dough?

Feel free to add lemon zest, almond extract, or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist on these classic cookies.

9. How should I store the cookies after baking?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and soft for several days.

10. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, butter provides the best flavor and texture for these cookies.

Conclusion

These Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s buttery, soft, and sure to satisfy any sweet craving. With their quick prep time and simple ingredients, they’re perfect for family baking or holiday celebrations. Whether you add nuts, chocolate chips, or enjoy them plain, these cookies are an irresistible indulgence that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies

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Print Recipe

Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies are a soft, buttery twist on the classic Kentucky butter cake, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are quick to make with simple ingredients and a rich, indulgent flavor. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a casual treat, these cookies can be made with or without pecans, and are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!

Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup sugar

2 large eggs

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Beat the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until fluffy and light in color.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
Fold in the chopped pecans, if desired.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

For a chocolate twist, add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough.
For a spiced version, roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking.
These cookies are delicious even without nuts, for those who prefer a nut-free version.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Desserts, Cookies, Holiday Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian