In a cozy kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies, it’s hard to resist the joy of holiday baking. That’s exactly how I felt when I whipped up these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! They are a festive delight with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center and a snowy powdered sugar coating, making them a showstopper at any gathering. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules or last-minute cookie swaps. Plus, the smile on your loved ones’ faces as they savor that delicious gooey goodness makes it all worthwhile. Ready to add some holiday cheer to your baking repertoire? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Irresistible?
Melt-in-your-mouth magic: Each bite offers a soft, gooey center that’s sure to captivate your taste buds.
Quick and simple: With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you’ll be ready to impress in no time!
Looks festive: Topped with powdered sugar and sprinkles, these cookies are a treat for the eyes and the palate.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for holiday cookie swaps or cozy gatherings, they’re bound to evoke smiles and warm memories.
Adaptable flavors: Feeling adventurous? Try adding crushed candy canes or substitute cake mixes for a fun twist!
Once you try these delightful cookies, you might find yourself baking them alongside other favorites like Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or delicious Peanut Butter Oat Cups.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• Yellow Cake Mix – Provides structure and sweetness; substitute with gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz) – Creates a gooey texture in the center; use light cream cheese for a slightly lighter option.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and helps create a chewy texture.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds flavor depth; use homemade or high-quality vanilla for best results.
For the Coating
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup) – Gives cookies their snow-dusted appearance; perfect for that festive touch.
• Red and Green Sprinkles (optional) – Adds a colorful touch to make the cookies even more festive.
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to celebrate the season! Enjoy the gooey goodness that brings smiles all around.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 oz of cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is incredibly smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You want a light and fluffy consistency that will be the base for your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until everything is well combined and the mixture looks smooth, around 1-2 minutes. The egg will help bind the ingredients, leading to that delightful gooey texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Cake Mix
Gradually add in the yellow cake mix, about a cup at a time, while mixing on low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure a proper blend. The dough should become thick and sticky—perfect for those mouthwatering Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Once your dough is ready, cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for firming up the dough, helping it maintain shape during baking. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s noticeably firmer to the touch.
Step 5: Shape and Coat Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After chilling, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Next, generously coat each ball in powdered sugar to create that festive snowy finish. Make sure to have enough sugar on hand to ensure they’re well covered, as this will enhance both flavor and appearance.
Step 6: Bake
Place the coated dough balls on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are done when the edges are set, but the centers still look slightly underbaked—this will give you that gooey center!
Step 7: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This time will help them firm up even more. If desired, sprinkle with red and green sprinkles while they’re still warm to make them extra festive. Once cooled, your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are ready to share and enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Fridge: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and avoid drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Cookie Dough Freezing: To prepare ahead, freeze cookie dough balls for up to 2 months. Just scoop, roll, and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once solid.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy holiday baking without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by following these simple steps: After mixing the dough, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This helps maintain its quality and prevents it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and bake as directed. You can also freeze the formed dough balls for up to 2 months; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake them fresh!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
The delightful warmth of freshly baked cookies pairs beautifully with comforting sides and sweet treats, creating a festive meal to remember.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, this warm drink complements the cookies, enhancing their gooey sweetness with each sip.
- Eggnog: Frosted with nutmeg and cinnamon, this classic holiday beverage adds a touch of holiday spirit to any cookie platter.
- Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or peppermint flavors create a mouthwatering combination with the warm cookies—imagine gooey bites with melty cream!
- Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies, adding a refreshing element to your spread.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like Brie or a tangy goat cheese; the flavors harmonize beautifully with the sweet cookies.
- Brownies: For the ultimate dessert table, serve gooey brownies alongside your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies for texture and flavor variety.
- Pecan Pie: This holiday classic, with its crunchy nuts and sweet filling, creates a lovely contrast that brings out the cookies’ textures.
- Christmas Punch: A fruity, sparkling punch adds a festive flair, making your celebration even more cheerful.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists on these cookies that will brighten your holiday baking experience.
- Gluten-Free: Switch to a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make these cookies suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a rich chocolatey flavor that’s irresistible. Imagine the gooeyness combined with rich chocolate—pure bliss!
- Peppermint Twist: Mix in crushed candy canes into the dough for a refreshing holiday flavor. It adds a festive crunch and a pop of color, reminiscent of candy canes hanging on a tree.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the dough for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. The combination of gooey texture with nutty bits might just become your new favorite.
- Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water) for an egg replacement. This way, everyone can enjoy the gooey goodness!
- Extra Creamy: Replace standard cream cheese with whipped cream cheese for a lighter, airier gooey center that melts even more deliciously in your mouth.
- Flavor Boost: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a warm, nutty depth to the cookies, creating a delightful twist on the classic flavor.
- Fruity Surprise: Gently fold in dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots into the dough for a burst of fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with the buttery sweetness.
With these ideas, you can make your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies a truly unique treat. And while you’re at it, you might want to check out other delectable recipes like Honey Butter Tteokbokki or the festive Christmas Tree Rice for more holiday cheer!
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure the cookies maintain their shape and don’t spread too much during baking.
- Baking Time Awareness: Remove cookies when the centers look slightly underbaked; they will continue to set as they cool, giving you the perfect gooey center.
- Proper Butter Texture: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened but not overly melted; this balance is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
- Generous Coating: Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar coating; a generous layer creates that delightful snowy effect and enhances sweetness.
- Check for Stickiness: If the dough seems too sticky after mixing, you can add a little extra cake mix, but be careful not to overmix!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of yellow cake mix should I use for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Absolutely! You can use any brand of yellow cake mix you like. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try gluten-free cake mix; it works beautifully in this recipe without losing that delightful gooey texture.
How should I store Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, and for how long will they last?
To keep your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their soft, gooey texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them!
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, and if so, how?
Definitely! Freezing these cookies is a great way to enjoy them later. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to devour them, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough is particularly sticky after mixing, it’s perfectly fine to add a touch more cake mix, about 1-2 tablespoons at a time. Just remember to mix gently after each addition to avoid over-mixing, which might affect the cookie’s final texture. Chilling the dough longer could also help firm it up.
Are Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies safe for my pet?
While these cookies might be a hit among family and friends, it’s important to keep them away from pets. Certain ingredients, like chocolate and certain nuts, can be harmful to animals. Always prioritize your furry friend’s health and avoid sharing any baked goods with them.
What if I can’t find cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor, or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Just note that it may alter the gooiness slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 oz of cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter and cream cheese mixture, continuing to mix on medium speed until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add in the yellow cake mix, about a cup at a time, while mixing on low speed. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls, then coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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