Irresistible Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are the ultimate festive treat that will brighten up your holiday season. These cookies are soft, chewy, and decadently buttery, coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar. Made with simple ingredients like cake mix and cream cheese, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. These delightful cookies are perfect for cookie swaps, holiday gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore this Gooey Butter Cookies recipe. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy holiday bakers. Second, these cookies offer a unique texture that is both soft and gooey, providing a delightful bite. Third, they are versatile; you can add crushed peppermint for a festive flair or white chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Fourth, they are perfect for family gatherings, Christmas parties, or as sweet gifts. Finally, they fit into the category of easy Christmas cookie recipes and are sure to impress everyone!

Ingredients for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Gather these items:

1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ to 1 cup powdered sugar, for coating
Optional Add-ins: Sprinkles for color
Crushed peppermint for flavor
White chocolate chips for added sweetness

How to Make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well blended.
Step 4: Gradually beat in the cake mix until a soft dough forms. It will be thick and sticky.
Step 5: Scoop 1-inch dough balls and roll each in powdered sugar until well coated.
Step 6: Place on prepared baking sheet 2 inches apart and bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Step 7: Let cool for 2–3 minutes on the pan before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened for a smooth mixture.
Do not overbake; the centers should be soft for that gooey texture.
Consider adding festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint for a holiday twist.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair with a warm cup of cocoa or holiday coffee.
Serve on a festive platter at your Christmas party.
Include them in a holiday gift basket alongside other festive gooey butter treats.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the dough before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their gooey texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

What are gooey butter cookies?

Gooey butter cookies are a soft and chewy dessert made primarily with butter, cream cheese, and cake mix, resulting in a rich and gooey cream cheese cookie recipe that melts in your mouth.

Can I make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just bake when you are ready!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overmix the dough and keep an eye on the baking time. The cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center for that soft and gooey cookie dessert effect.

Variations of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies You Can Try

Here are some fun variations:

Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Incorporate crushed peppermint for a refreshing flavor.
Try using different cake mixes, like chocolate or red velvet, for unique flavors!