Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays, these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are just what you need. They are soft, buttery, and bursting with festive cheer, making them perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy night in. Ready to bake these festive goodies? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfectly soft and gooey texture that melts in your mouth.
- Rich, buttery flavor enhanced with a touch of vanilla.
- Great for gifting and sharing during the holidays.
- Customizable with festive sprinkles or flavors for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Festive sprinkles (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually mix in the cake mix until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Roll the balls in powdered sugar until fully coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, about 2 inches apart.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- For best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. Read more about baking with room temperature ingredients.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies and consistent baking.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Learn more about chilling dough.
Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint: Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough.
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and use lemon cake mix instead.
- Red Velvet: Use red velvet cake mix and decorate with white chocolate chips.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheet
- Wire racks
Storage Instructions
Store your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Suggested Pairings
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa, freshly brewed coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter during holiday gatherings.
Pro Tips
- Don’t overbake! The cookies should be slightly underdone in the center for the best gooey texture. See more baking tips.
- Use parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and for easy cleanup.
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors for unique variations of this recipe.
FAQs
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
No, for the best flavor and texture, stick to unsalted butter. - Do I need to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling the dough helps control the spreading during baking. - Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can make the dough and freeze it up to three months in advance.