1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
6. Drop tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. While the cookies are baking, prepare the butter glaze by whisking together the melted butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and water until smooth.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and while still warm, brush them generously with the butter glaze.
10. Allow the glazed cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Tips
For a twist on these classic cookies, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the cookie dough for a spiced version. Another lovely variation is to stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture and nuttiness. If you’re feeling particularly decadent, drizzle or dip the cookies in melted chocolate once they’ve cooled.
