Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies

When I think of the holidays, the first thing that comes to mind are the Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies that have been a family tradition for as long as I can remember. My mom would whip up a batch every year, filling our home with that delightful aroma of sweet vanilla and buttery goodness. I can still picture us gathered around the kitchen table, waiting impatiently for those cookies to cool so we could sneak a few while they were still warm. Each bite was like a little hug, reminding us of the love and warmth of the season.

These Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies are truly perfect for the holiday season, bringing joy and cheer to family gatherings and festive cookie exchanges alike. With their soft, chewy texture and dusting of powdered sugar, they’re not just cookies; they’re memories waiting to happen. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are bound to become a cherished part of your own holiday traditions.

Why You’ll Love "Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies"

• Quick and easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients.
• Soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth — pure holiday bliss!
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or cozy family nights.
• Freezer-friendly: make a batch ahead of time and enjoy later.
• Fun to decorate with festive sprinkles for a cheerful touch.
• Kid-friendly and a great way to get the little ones involved in baking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 package yellow cake mix (look for a brand without artificial flavors for the best taste)
• 1 large egg (room temperature helps with mixing)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature for smooth blending)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened at room temperature for easier mixing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract is always a winner)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting; you can use a sifter for an even coat)
• Festive sprinkles (optional, but they add a fun holiday touch!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and perfectly.

Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until everything is combined and the batter is fluffy.
3. Gradually add the yellow cake mix into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until the dough comes together. Don’t worry if it looks a bit thick; that just means it’s going to be chewy and delicious!

Chill the Dough

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Form the Cookies

1. Once the dough has chilled, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your palms.
2. Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This will give your cookies that lovely snowy appearance!
3. Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will spread a bit while baking.
4. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top of each cookie ball for an extra holiday touch.

Bake the Cookies

1. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them — you want them soft and gooey in the middle!
2. Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them set up nicely.
3. Let cool completely before serving, but don’t be surprised if you can’t resist sneaking a warm one right away!

Variations

• Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a rich, gooey twist.
• Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.
• Incorporate crushed peppermint candies for a festive holiday flavor.
• Try using lemon extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing citrus taste.
• Swap cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make it dairy-free.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Enjoy these cookies warm with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk! They also pair wonderfully with coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. You can serve them as is or dust with extra powdered sugar for a lovely presentation.

Storage

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag where they can last for up to three months. Just thaw before serving!

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and butter.
• For a nutty flavor, consider adding ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts or almond extract.
• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened; this makes mixing much easier.
• For those with gluten sensitivities, be sure to choose certified gluten-free cake mix.
• Feel free to experiment with different extract flavors to customize your cookies!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these cookies! Just make sure they’re completely cool, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll last for up to three months.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’d like to substitute cream cheese, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just remember that the texture might change slightly.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors like chocolate or red velvet. Just keep in mind that it’ll change the overall taste of the cookies, but it can be a delicious surprise!

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Check the packaging to ensure it’s certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If you find your dough is too sticky to handle, don’t fret! Just chill it a bit longer in the refrigerator, and it should firm up nicely, making it easier to roll into balls.

Final Thoughts

As the holiday season approaches, I can’t encourage you enough to try making these Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies. They’re not just a treat; they’re a way to create sweet memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re baking alone or gathering the family to help, these cookies are sure to fill your home with warmth and joy. So put on your apron, turn up the festive tunes, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. I promise, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked and these cookies will find their way into your holiday traditions for years to come!

Print