As the holiday season approaches, the smell of freshly baked cookies fills my home with warmth and nostalgia. Few treats evoke the spirit of Christmas quite like these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies; they’re soft, chewy, and utterly delightful! This easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients that magically transform into a festive delight, making them an ideal addition to cookie swaps or family gatherings. Not only are they crowd-pleasers, but they’re also a fun canvas for creative flavors and variations. Want to make them gluten-free? No problem! This recipe easily adapts to fit everyone’s needs. So, what unique twist will you add to your batch this year? Let’s dive into the sweetness of the season!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Decadent Melty Center: Each Christmas Gooey Butter Cookie boasts a soft, gooey core that melts in your mouth, offering a unique texture that’s hard to resist.
Festive Variety: You can easily customize these cookies by experimenting with different cake mixes or mix-ins like mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes, adding your own flair to every batch!
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules, allowing you to whip up a batch before guests arrive.
Crowd Favorite: With their delightful flavor and charming festive appearance, these cookies are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings or cookie swaps. If you enjoy simple treats, don’t miss out on our Biscoff Cookie Butter recipe for another easy festive delight!
Gluten-Free Friendly: This recipe can easily be adjusted using gluten-free cake mix, ensuring everyone can indulge in these sugary bites during the holidays!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready for a festive baking adventure!
For the Cookie Base
- Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Provides moisture and a creamy texture; avoid tub varieties for best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and helps to achieve that soft, gooey cookie texture.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together while retaining moisture; for vegan options, consider unsweetened applesauce.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; substitute almond or peppermint extract for a holiday twist.
- Yellow Cake Mix – The star of these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, delivering sweetness and structure; can be swapped for vanilla or white cake mix.
For the Topping
- Powdered Sugar – A sweet coating that makes these cookies aesthetically pleasing; colored sanding sugar can be used for decoration instead.
- Holiday Sprinkles – Adds a festive touch; optional, but can be exchanged for chocolate chips or crushed candy canes if desired.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they are ready for the cookies. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup later. The goal is to have a lovely, soft base for our delightful Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened full-fat cream cheese, ½ cup of unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until the blend is smooth and creamy, allowing the luscious texture to form. This mixture serves as the foundation for the gooeyness that defines our cookies.
Step 3: Combine the Cake Mix
Gradually mix in one box (15.25 ounces) of yellow cake mix until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated. The dough will be noticeably thick and slightly sticky, creating that irresistible texture expected from Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 4: Add Holiday Sprinkles
Gently fold in about ½ cup of holiday sprinkles using a spatula, stirring carefully to distribute them throughout the cookie dough. Take care not to overmix, as this can cause the colors to bleed, affecting the festive look. The sprinkles add a cheerful touch that will make these cookies extra special during the holidays.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step will help firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and shape into balls. Chilling is key to preventing spreading, ensuring your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies maintain their ideal texture.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
After chilling, scoop out the dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, forming 1.5-inch balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until well-coated. The sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates a beautiful snowy appearance once baked, making your cookies look as delightful as they taste.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 2 inches between each one to give them room to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, watching closely as the edges set and the centers remain soft. The magic happens when you see the cookies puff slightly and start to crack on top.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the sheets. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The final result will be splendidly soft Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies that are both visually appealing and absolutely delicious!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
These scrumptious cookies are perfect for creating a delightful holiday spread that will leave your loved ones smiling.
-
Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa, rich with chocolate and topped with whipped cream, complements the gooey sweetness, creating a cozy, festive experience.
-
Coffee: The bold, invigorating flavor of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for an irresistible pairing during holiday gatherings.
-
Milk: A classic choice! The creamy, coolness of a glass of milk enhances the flavors of the cookies, making every bite even more memorable.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the cookies to create a delightful contrast—warm, gooey cookies with cold, creamy ice cream is a heavenly combination.
-
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of color and natural sweetness, providing a lovely balance to the richness of the cookies.
-
Cheese Platter: Create a savory contrast by serving a selection of cheeses. The different textures and flavors can beautifully complement the sweetness of the cookies.
-
Holiday Punch: A festive holiday punch or spiced cider elevates the atmosphere. The fruity notes and spices enhance the cookies’ flavor while adding seasonal cheer.
-
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The sweet and slightly tart strawberries, dipped in rich chocolate, offer a deliciously elegant touch that pairs wonderfully with the Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
-
Nutty Biscotti: These crunchy delights provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft cookies, making each bite an adventure!
-
Pecan Pie Bars: Treat guests to luscious pecan pie bars alongside the cookies for a dual dessert experience that embodies the essence of holiday flavors.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful variations to enhance your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies!
-
Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, melty surprise in every bite. The combination of chocolate and buttery flavor creates a wonderful indulgence!
-
Candy Canes: Crush up candy canes and fold them into the dough for a refreshing peppermint twist. This adds a festive crunch that’s just perfect for the holidays!
-
Food Coloring: Get festive by mixing in red or green food coloring into the dough. It not only makes the cookies visually stunning but also adds a playful spirit to your treats.
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version. This way, everyone can partake in the joy of these delicious cookies without compromising on flavor!
-
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and a delightful crunch. Nuts pair wonderfully with the soft gooey center.
-
Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the mix for a warm, aromatic touch. This nostalgic flavor will remind you of gingerbread cookies during the holidays!
-
Almond Joy: Swap in almond extract instead of vanilla and fold in shredded coconut. You’ll create a flavorful cookie reminiscent of the beloved candy bar!
-
Hot Cocoa: Mix in cocoa powder and top with mini marshmallows for a wintery hot cocoa vibe. These cookies will warm your heart and home during chilly nights.
For more delightful recipes, don’t miss our Chocolate Oat Cookies or make the season extra special with Butter Chicken Cozy.
Storage Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and gooey, ready for holiday enjoyment.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, bringing back their delightful gooey texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a quick bake when you’re ready to serve. Simply mix all the ingredients as directed and chill the dough in a covered bowl. For maximum freshness, roll the dough balls in powdered sugar right before baking, as this coating can lose its texture if added too early. When you’re ready to enjoy, just scoop them out and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes for that soft and gooey center. Enjoy the time-saving benefits!
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
-
Chill Dough Well: Chilling for at least 30 minutes is essential to firm up the dough, making it easier to shape and preventing excessive spreading during baking.
-
Select Quality Ingredients: Always use block-style cream cheese instead of spreadable kinds; the latter can significantly alter the texture of your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
-
Watch Mixing Time: Overmixing after adding sprinkles can lead to color bleeding. Mix gently to maintain the festive appearance of the cookies.
-
Proper Cake Mix Size: Make sure to use the recommended 15.25 oz cake mix for consistency. Different sizes may yield unexpected results in texture and flavor.
-
Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them maintain their deliciously gooey centers.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cream cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for full-fat block-style cream cheese. It’s crucial to avoid tub varieties, as they contain more moisture, which can negatively affect the texture of your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
How should I store the cookies after baking?
You’ll want to store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them wonderfully soft and gooey. If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months to preserve that festive flavor.
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cookies cool completely, then layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If this happens, don’t worry! It’s often due to the dough not being chilled long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping it into balls. Additionally, ensure that your oven is preheated properly, as baking in an oven that’s too cool can lead to spreading.
Can I use gluten-free cake mix for this recipe?
Very much so! You can easily substitute the regular yellow cake mix with a gluten-free option. Just make sure to check the packaging for the right measurement, and your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies will still come out beautifully soft and delicious!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
For those concerned about allergies, you might want to stay clear of using any type of nut-based products or substitutes, as well as ensure that your cake mix is free from allergens – like gluten or dairy if you’re using gluten-free options. If serving to others, it’s always a good idea to disclose ingredient information!
Irresistible Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually mix in the yellow cake mix until a thick dough forms, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gently fold in the holiday sprinkles, being careful not to overmix.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, scoop the dough into 1.5-inch balls and roll each one in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Leave a Reply