Introduction to Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of sweet treats that bring joy to my family. That’s where my Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies come in! These delightful cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate. With their soft, chewy texture and gooey center, they’re perfect for busy moms like us who want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, these cookies are a holiday must-try!
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Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies: A Must-Try Delight!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a deliciously soft and chewy treat, perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are rich, buttery, and have a delightful gooey center that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 1 box of cake mix (yellow or white)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the remaining egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Fold the cream cheese mixture into the cake mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a festive touch, add red and green sprinkles on top before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a game-changer for the holiday season! They’re incredibly easy to make, which is a blessing for busy schedules. In just 30 minutes, you can create a batch that’s rich, buttery, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, the gooey center is a delightful surprise that will have your family and friends raving. Trust me, these cookies will become a cherished tradition in your home!
Ingredients for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cake Mix: A box of yellow or white cake mix serves as the base. It adds sweetness and a soft texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter brings richness and moisture. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
- Eggs: You’ll need two eggs—one for the cake mix and one for the cream cheese mixture. They help bind everything together.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is the star of the show! It creates that signature gooey center and adds a tangy flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making these cookies even more irresistible.
- Powdered Sugar: This is for dusting on top before serving. It adds a sweet finish and a festive touch.
For a little extra flair, consider adding red and green sprinkles on top before baking. It’s a simple way to make these cookies even more festive!
All the exact measurements are at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print. Happy baking!
How to Make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your kitchen smell like a holiday dream.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!
Step 2: Mix the Cake Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Use a spatula or a whisk to mix everything until it’s well blended. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky, which is just what you want. This mixture is the foundation of your gooey butter cookies!
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, add the remaining egg and the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture is what gives your cookies that delightful gooey center. It’s like a little surprise waiting to be discovered!
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Now, gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the cake mix. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine them until just blended. This step is where the magic happens, as the two mixtures come together to create a rich, buttery dough.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the right texture. Pop the bowl in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, preventing them from spreading too much. Plus, it makes the dough easier to handle!
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, it’s time to shape your cookies. Use a spoon or a cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread a little while baking. If you want to add sprinkles, now’s the time!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers still look a bit soft. They will firm up as they cool, giving you that perfect gooey texture.
Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once your cookies have cooled slightly, it’s time for the final touch. Dust them generously with powdered sugar. This not only adds sweetness but also gives your cookies a beautiful, festive look. It’s like a sprinkle of holiday magic!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s key for texture.
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors for unique twists.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls: Use any large bowls you have on hand; glass or stainless steel works great.
- Whisk or Spatula: A whisk is perfect for mixing, but a spatula will do just fine.
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is essential.
- Cookie Scoop: If you don’t have one, a tablespoon works well for shaping cookies.
- Refrigerator: Essential for chilling the dough; no alternatives needed!
Variations of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Chocolate Chip: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Red Velvet: Use red velvet cake mix instead of yellow or white for a festive color and flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary needs.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Present them on a festive platter, dusted with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful display.
- Include a side of fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
- For a holiday gathering, stack them in a clear jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift.
FAQs about Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
As you embark on your baking adventure with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow or white cake mix is traditional, feel free to experiment with chocolate, red velvet, or even lemon cake mix for a unique twist. Each variation brings its own delightful flavor!
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes and keep your baking sheet cool between batches.
Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
Definitely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to the dough for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful not to overload the dough, as it may affect the gooey center!
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on my journey with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, I can’t help but smile. These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a way to create cherished memories with family and friends. The joy of baking together, the laughter shared over gooey bites, and the festive spirit they bring to our gatherings are truly priceless. Whether you’re a busy mom or a professional, this recipe is a delightful escape into the warmth of the holiday season. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of baking, and let these cookies fill your home with love and joy!