Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a festive holiday treat that perfectly balances soft, buttery richness with a tender, gooey center. Bursting with sweet holiday sprinkles and dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. With a simple recipe that comes together quickly, they’re ideal for holiday cookie swaps, parties, or a cozy baking session with family.

Ingredients

▢ 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
▢ ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
▢ 1 large egg
▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
▢ 1 (15.25 ounce) box of yellow cake mix
▢ ½ cup holiday sprinkles
▢ ½ cup powdered sugar

Introduction

If you love buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a must-try. Originating from St. Louis-style gooey butter cakes, this cookie version is easier to make but just as decadent. The cream cheese adds a creamy richness, the butter creates a tender texture, and the yellow cake mix simplifies preparation while giving the cookies a perfect structure. Holiday sprinkles add a cheerful, festive touch, making these cookies ideal for Christmas dessert tables.

These cookies are soft, slightly dense, and irresistibly sweet, with a gooey center that sets them apart from ordinary sugar cookies. Dusting with powdered sugar gives them a snowy appearance, perfect for the winter season.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This ensures the base of your cookies is soft and luscious.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. These ingredients provide flavor and help bind the dough together.

Step 4: Incorporate Cake Mix

Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 5: Fold in Sprinkles

Gently fold in the holiday sprinkles for a colorful, festive touch. Save a few sprinkles to sprinkle on top before baking if desired.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each slightly with the palm of your hand or the back of a spoon.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look soft and slightly gooey—this is what makes these cookies unique.

Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack. Once cooled slightly, dust generously with powdered sugar to create a snowy, festive appearance.

Tips for Success

• Softened Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are fully softened to avoid lumps in the dough.
• Do Not Overbake: For gooey centers, remove the cookies as soon as the edges are lightly golden.
• Even Sizes: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly.
• Extra Sprinkles: Add extra sprinkles on top before baking for a more vibrant, festive look.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the cake mix for a chocolatey twist.
• Peppermint Twist: Mix in crushed peppermint candies or extract for a holiday flavor.
• Nutty Variation: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Festive Frosting: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an extra holiday touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy holiday treat. They’re perfect on a festive dessert platter alongside sugar cookies, gingerbread, and brownies. Individually wrapped, they also make thoughtful homemade gifts for friends, neighbors, or colleagues.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Prepare and bake the cookies up to one day in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. They can also be frozen, either before or after baking, for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free variety.

3. How do I keep the cookies soft?
Do not overbake and store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

4. Can I add more sprinkles?
Absolutely! Add them inside the dough and on top for extra festive color.

5. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

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Conclusion

Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are an easy, festive, and irresistible holiday treat. With their tender, buttery texture, gooey centers, and colorful sprinkles, they bring both joy and flavor to the holiday season. Perfect for family gatherings, cookie swaps, or a sweet treat after a snowy day, these cookies are guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy them.