The air is crisp, and twinkling lights adorn every corner—Christmas is truly a season of warmth and celebration. As I mix together the ingredients for these Soft and Buttery Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, the anticipation builds. Each bite offers a soft, tender experience that melts in your mouth, combining the rich flavors of cream cheese and butter. This recipe is not only a festive treat but also a quick, hassle-free way to delight friends and family during the holidays. With a dusting of powdered sugar and a gooey center, these cookies are perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights by the fire. Are you ready to join me in crafting these easy holiday delights that will undoubtedly become a staple at your Christmas gatherings?
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Each bite of these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies delivers a delightful softness and chewiness that perfectly embodies holiday indulgence.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them an effortless addition to your festive baking lineup.
Versatile Options: Feel free to personalize these cookies by adding crushed peppermint or swapping cake mixes for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich combination of cream cheese and buttery goodness ensures they will become a hit at gatherings, much like our Garlic Butter Beef Cheeseburger Rollups or Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps.
Festive Appeal: The snowy dusting of powdered sugar and bright sprinkles make these cookies visually delightful—perfect for decorating your holiday table.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the freezer, so you’re always ready to bake fresh cookies at a moment’s notice!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
For the Batter
• Yellow Cake Mix – Provides a sweet, moist structure; can substitute with gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Adds richness and moisture, creating that signature gooey texture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Cream Cheese (1 package, 8 oz, softened) – Contributes to the gooey center and creamy flavor; opt for reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
• Large Egg (1) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; no direct substitute is suggested.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor profile; using fresh vanilla or vanilla bean paste can elevate the taste.
For the Coating
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup, for coating) – Delivers sweetness and the classic snowy coating; for a lower-calorie version, consider powdered erythritol.
• Red and Green Sprinkles (optional) – Adds festive decoration; feel free to omit or swap with other holiday-themed sprinkles.
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are bound to become a cherished favorite during your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prep Mixing Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, start by creaming together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer. This vital step ensures your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies have that signature rich texture.
Step 2: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in one large egg and one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until well combined and slightly fluffy, which should take another 1-2 minutes. The egg binds the ingredients together, creating a cohesive batter filled with holiday cheer.
Step 3: Add Cake Mix
Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated—aim for no visible dry spots. This step is crucial for the cookie structure, transforming it into a deliciously gooey batter perfect for our Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the dough to firm up, ensuring your cookies maintain their lovely shape and gooey center during baking, making the wait worth it!
Step 5: Shape & Coat Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Once ready, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Generously coat each ball in powdered sugar, which will create that delightful snowy finish for your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 6: Bake
Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers still appear soft and slightly underbaked for that gooey texture everyone loves.
Step 7: Cool & Decorate
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps them firm up while remaining gooey in the center; if desired, sprinkle with colored sprinkles for an extra festive touch before serving.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Mix it up this holiday season! Choose from these delightful variations to make your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies truly unique.
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Chocolate Cake Mix: Substitute yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a rich, decadent twist. This will create an irresistible chocolatey center that complements the cookies perfectly.
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Peppermint Candy Crush: Add crushed peppermint candies to the dough for a festive crunch and a splash of holiday flavor. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is always a crowd-pleaser!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to check the brand’s instructions for the best results.
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Reduced-Fat Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light butter for a slightly lighter version without sacrificing that delicious gooeyness. It’s a fantastic choice for those watching their calories!
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and flavor. They bring a delightful crunch that balances the soft, gooey cookie beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix to introduce warm, cozy flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for the holiday season.
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Decorative Toppings: Instead of regular sprinkles, try using holiday-themed decorations like edible glitter or colored sugar for a festive touch that pops! These little details elevate the presentation of your cookies.
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Extra Gooeyness: To amplify that gooey center, place a chocolate or caramel square inside the dough ball before baking. It melts beautifully and creates a delightful surprise with every bite.
Feel inspired to explore these variations, and make your holiday baking even more exciting! You might even want to indulge in some of our other delicious treats like Brown Butter Cookies or Garlic Butter Beef Cheeseburger Rollups. Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to retain their soft, gooey texture.
Fridge: If you prefer to extend freshness, refrigerate the cookies, wrapped well, for up to 1 week while still keeping them soft and delicious.
Freezer: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back that irresistible gooeyness in every bite of your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. Additionally, you can scoop and roll the dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, gooey cookies just as delicious as if they were made from scratch on the spot!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
The joy of baking these delightful cookies goes hand in hand with creating the perfect holiday spread.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A cup of velvety hot chocolate with whipped cream complements the gooey texture, making every bite a warm embrace.
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Festive Fruit Platter: Fresh strawberries, grapes, and mandarins add a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies and enhancing your holiday table.
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Creamy Eggnog: The nutmeg and spice flavors in eggnog harmonize beautifully with the buttery cookies, creating a drinkable festive treat enjoyed by all.
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Gingerbread Men: These spicy, chewy treats contrast perfectly with the soft and gooey cookies, offering a truly festive dessert experience that evokes holiday nostalgia.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider brings a hint of cinnamon and apple flavors that awaken the senses and complement the cookies’ sweetness.
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Decadent Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Strawberries or bananas dipped in rich chocolate provide indulgent bites that enhance the overall festive dessert experience, ensuring pleasing variety.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on warm cookies creates a heavenly dessert experience—a true celebration of flavors and textures.
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes. This keeps your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
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Watch the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking! Remove the cookies when the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked—this ensures that signature gooey center.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This promotes better mixing and results in a smoother batter.
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Coat Generously: Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar coating. It’s not just for looks; it adds sweetness and enhances the festive presentation of your cookies.
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Experiment with Flavors: For a unique twist, try mixing in chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies—these variations can elevate your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies to new heights!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right yellow cake mix?
Absolutely! When selecting a yellow cake mix, look for one with simple ingredients and minimal additives. A brand you’ve enjoyed in the past is usually a safe bet. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free version, ensure the packaging specifically states “gluten-free.”
How long can I store the baked cookies?
You can store your cooled Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll remain soft and gooey throughout this time, perfect for snacking or sharing!
Can I freeze the dough for these cookies?
Very! To freeze the dough, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, just pop them on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies spread too much during baking, it might be that the dough was too warm before it went in the oven. To avoid this, always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. Additionally, ensure your butter wasn’t too melted when creaming with the cream cheese—it should be softened and just pliable.
Are these cookies safe for my pets or anyone with dairy allergies?
It’s wise to be cautious! The cream cheese and butter used in these cookies are not safe for pets, particularly dogs and cats, as they can cause digestive upset. If someone in your household has a dairy allergy, consider substituting dairy-free alternatives for the butter and cream cheese, ensuring they’re allergen-free and suitable for their needs.
Can I change the flavor profile of these cookies?
Absolutely! The beauty of these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies is their versatility. You can mix in chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, or even use a chocolate or spice cake mix instead of yellow for a different flavor profile. Just remember to keep the ratios consistent to maintain gooeyness and texture!
Irresistibly Soft Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in one large egg and one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until well combined and slightly fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls, coat in powdered sugar.
- Place sugary dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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