As the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, a sense of holiday nostalgia settles in. It’s during this magical season that I find myself reaching for the recipe of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, a delightful treat that never fails to bring smiles. These easy-to-make butter cookies boast a lusciously gooey cream cheese center, enveloped in a snowy coating of powdered sugar that looks just like winter wonderland. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy nights by the fire, making them a must-have for your festive baking lineup. Plus, with simple substitutions, you can easily tailor the recipe to lighter or gluten-free options without sacrificing that comforting taste we all love. Ready to indulge in a sweet slice of holiday joy? Let’s dive into this heartwarming kitchen adventure!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Soft, Chewy Texture: The delightful gooey cream cheese center combined with a soft outer shell makes each bite an explosion of holiday goodness.
Easy to Make: The simple steps require minimal baking skills, making these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies perfect for bakers of all levels.
Customizable: With variations like almond extract or festive sprinkles, you can easily make this recipe your own!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a holiday gathering or cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and joy to everyone. Pair them with hot cocoa or apple cider for a warm treat that satisfies.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months, perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
• Everything you need for blissful baking!
For the Dough
- Yellow Cake Mix – Provides the base flavor and structure; a gluten-free cake mix works great for a gluten-free version.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
- Cream Cheese – Creates that gooey texture; full-fat is recommended for the best results, but light cream cheese can substitute if you’re looking to lighten things up.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the fluffy texture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; always choose pure for an authentic taste.
For the Coating
- Powdered Sugar – Gives the cookies their snowy appearance; a sugar-free option can be used if desired.
- Red and Green Sprinkles – Optional garnish that adds a festive touch and a pop of color to your cookies.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready to embark on this warm, delightful baking adventure with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined, approximately 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks light and fluffy, and there are no lumps visible. This creamy base will set the stage for your delicious Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the creamy mixture. Beat on medium speed until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter appears light and airy, about 1-2 minutes. The floury scent of vanilla will evoke a festive spirit, ensuring your dough starts off on a delightful note.
Step 3: Incorporate Cake Mix
Gradually add in half of the 15.25-ounce box of yellow cake mix, mixing on low until fully combined. Then, add the remaining cake mix, continuing to beat until the dough is thick and sticky, which should take another 1-2 minutes. This luscious dough is what makes the Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies so irresistible, with a rich flavor foundation.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to shape the cookies later. While you wait, enjoy the aromas of the vanilla and butter mingling in your kitchen, a perfect prelude to your baking adventure!
Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Tray
As the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. The oven’s warmth will soon blend with the sweet scent of baking cookies, adding to the holiday cheer in your home.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls between your hands, then generously coat each ball in powdered sugar. This will give your cookies their beautiful snowy appearance, setting the stage for a festive treat that’s wonderfully gooey inside.
Step 7: Bake
Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers appear soft and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on them, as underbaking just slightly will maintain that signature gooey center we all love in Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, sprinkle some festive red and green sprinkles on top while still warm for an extra touch of holiday cheer before serving. Enjoy these delightful cookies fresh or saved for your special gatherings!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
As the scent of these delicious cookies envelops your home, it’s the perfect time to think about delightful pairings that enhance this festive experience.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa complements the cookies’ sweetness, adding a rich, chocolatey contrast that’s simply irresistible.
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Peppermint Coffee: The refreshing hints of peppermint in your coffee offer a delightful twist, balancing the buttery richness of the cookies perfectly.
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Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon; the fruity notes enhance the cookies’ festive flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side provides a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey cookie, invoking that classic dessert duo.
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Holiday Fruit Salad: Freshness from seasonal fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and apples adds a vibrant, juicy element, cutting through the richness of the cookies beautifully.
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Nutty Cheese Board: A selection of creamy brie and sharp cheddar, paired with nuts and dried fruits, brings an exciting flavor fusion that complements the sweet treats.
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Festive Spritzer: A sparkling water infused with cranberry and lime offers a refreshing palate cleanser, making every cookie bite feel special and festive.
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Gingerbread Cake: Continue the holiday sweetness with a slice of spiced gingerbread; the warm and cozy flavors pair excellently with the cookies, perfect for a dessert platter.
Feel free to mix and match these pairings for gatherings that celebrate the joy of the season and the magic of homemade treats!
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent flat cookies. This step helps maintain the cookies’ shape and gooey texture.
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Perfectly Gooey Center: For the ultimate gooeyness, slightly underbake the cookies, allowing the centers to remain soft and chewy while the edges are set.
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Use Quality Vanilla: Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. I promise it makes a noticeable difference in your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
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Properly Soften Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened before creaming. If too cold, they won’t incorporate well, leading to lumpy dough.
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Generous Powdered Sugar Coating: Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar when coating the dough balls. A good layer creates that beautiful snowy appearance and a delightful sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Again, use parchment or wax paper between layers for best results.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. The centers will become gooey and delightful once again!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix instead of traditional cake mix for a delectable gluten-free treat. Everyone can enjoy the joy of these cookies!
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives to create a luscious vegan version. Coconut cream and nut-based butter can work wonders here.
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Lower Sugar: Substitute powdered sugar with a sugar-free option and consider sweetening the dough with your favorite sugar substitute for a lighter treat. The gooey center will still shine through!
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Flavor Infusion: Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a delightful twist. This adds a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery goodness.
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Festive Flares: Add crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips to the dough before baking for an extra festive touch. It’s like a holiday party in each cookie!
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Colorful Sprinkles: For a fun visual, incorporate rainbow sprinkles into the dough for a splash of color. These cookies will be perfect for any holiday celebration!
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Cinnamon Spice: Spice things up by adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough. The warm aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
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Chocolate-Dipped: For an indulgent touch, dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate. Allow them to set on parchment paper for a refined dessert everyone will love.
These variations will help you make your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies not just a treat but a delightful experience. Don’t forget to check out our other recipes like Cowboy Butter Steak for a tasty dinner option or Pumpkin Smores Cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth all season long! Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the steps until chilling. Simply cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate, ensuring it stays fresh and maintains its gooey texture. If you need to prep further ahead, the uncooked dough can be frozen for up to 2 months; just scoop into balls, coat with powdered sugar, and store in an airtight container. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop the dough balls directly into the oven and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This ensures you have delicious, freshly baked Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know which yellow cake mix to choose?
Absolutely! Look for a cake mix that has a good reputation for flavor and texture. Most standard yellow cake mixes will work perfectly for this recipe, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to choose one specifically labeled as such.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very good question! To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For optimal freshness, insert parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week using the same method.
Can I freeze the dough for later baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze unbaked dough balls, scoop the dough and roll them into balls, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just take them straight from the freezer and add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.
What if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies spread too much while baking, it might be because the dough was too warm or not chilled long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Another tip is to avoid overmixing the dough after adding the cake mix, as this can lead to a loss of fluffiness.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Great question! These cookies contain common allergens like eggs, gluten, and dairy, which may not be safe for pets or those with allergies. Always consult your veterinarian regarding food for pets, and be sure to notify anyone with dietary restrictions when serving these cookies. If you want to adjust the recipe for allergens, consider using egg substitutes and gluten-free cake mixes!
Deliciously Soft Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add in half of the 15.25-ounce box of yellow cake mix, then the remaining cake mix until thick and sticky.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the chilled dough into balls and coat in powdered sugar.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Let cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
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