Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Every year, as the holiday season rolls around, I find myself diving headfirst into my cherished traditions. One of my absolute favorites is making Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. I can still remember the first time I made them in my tiny kitchen, flour flying everywhere, and the sweet scent of vanilla and butter wafting through the air. My kids were bouncing around, eager to taste the dough before it even made it to the oven. It's those moments of laughter and joy that make the holiday season truly magical, and these cookies have become a staple in our home.

Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for the season because they capture all the festive flavors we adore. Their rich, creamy texture and delightful sweetness pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa or a cozy family gathering. Whether you're baking for a holiday party or simply to enjoy with loved ones around the fireplace, these cookies are sure to become a beloved tradition in your own home. Trust me, once you make them, you'll want to share them with everyone you know!

Why You’ll Love "Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies"

• Quick and easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes!
• Rich, gooey texture that melts in your mouth — perfect for the holidays.
• Minimal ingredients mean less fuss and more fun in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy — kids love to help!
• Freezer-friendly, so you can bake ahead and enjoy them later.
• Perfect for gift-giving or holiday parties, bringing smiles to everyone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened (Use Philadelphia for the best results!)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.)
• 1 large egg (Bring it to room temperature for a smoother dough.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure vanilla extract is always a winner!)
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box of yellow cake mix (Any brand will do, but I love Duncan Hines.)
• ½ cup holiday sprinkles (Get creative with colors and shapes for festive flair!)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (For dusting, gives that sweet finishing touch.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly gooey.

Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 8 ounces of softened full-fat cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key for that rich texture!
2. Add in the 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined and you can’t see any lumps. The smell is going to be heavenly!
3. Now, gradually add in the entire box of yellow cake mix. Stir until it's fully incorporated into the wet mixture. Don’t worry if it looks a bit thick; that’s just the way we want it!
4. Finally, gently fold in ½ cup of holiday sprinkles. This is where the fun happens! Feel free to mix and match colors to make these cookies extra festive!

Prepare for Baking

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each one — they’ll spread out as they bake.
3. Once you’ve got all your dough balls on the sheet, dust each one with powdered sugar. This gives them that classic gooey butter cookie look and adds a touch of sweetness!

Bake the Cookies

1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for golden edges. The centers may look a little soft, but trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool!
2. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This is the hardest part — letting them cool before tasting them!

Variations

• For a chocolate twist, substitute half of the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix.
• Add in crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing holiday flavor.
• Use gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.
• Try adding orange or almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
• For lighter cookies, use reduced-fat cream cheese and butter.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa. For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter and sprinkle some extra holiday sprinkles on top for that extra sparkle!

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll stay good for up to three months.

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer dairy-free options, use vegan cream cheese and margarine instead of butter.
• For a nutty flavor, consider adding ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts to the dough.
• Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts, like peppermint or hazelnut, to change up the taste!
• These cookies can be made ahead of time, so don’t hesitate to bake them a day or two before your holiday gathering.
• Adjust the sweetness by reducing the powdered sugar if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these cookies! Just let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they're frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy them.

How can I substitute the cream cheese?

If you need a substitute for cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture. Silken tofu is a great dairy-free option, or you can try vegan cream cheese for a plant-based alternative. Just keep in mind that using different options may slightly change the flavor.

What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?

No worries if you don't have yellow cake mix! You can make your own by combining 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This DIY mix will work just as well in the recipe!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a celebration of the season, a way to create memories, and a reason to gather loved ones around the table. Trust me, the laughter, and joy that fills your kitchen while baking these cookies will be just as sweet as the cookies themselves. So grab your ingredients, tie that apron on, and let's bring some festive cheer into your home. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to taste the magic!

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