Description
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. Soft, chewy, and bursting with festive flair, these cookies combine the tangy richness of cream cheese with the convenience of a cake mix base. The result? A delightful treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a party, preparing gifts, or enjoying a quiet night in, these cookies will bring joy to every bite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy Bakers: Quick and easy to prepare, even for last-minute holiday treats.
- Holiday Hosts: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings.
- Gift-Givers: A homemade, heartfelt gift option that’s always appreciated.
- Kids and Families: Simple steps make it an ideal recipe for baking together.
Why It’s Great
- Easy to Make: Minimal effort with maximum flavor, thanks to the cake mix base.
- Rich and Gooey: Cream cheese and butter create a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Festive Fun: Holiday sprinkles add a colorful and joyful touch.
- Versatile: Swap sprinkles for different themes to enjoy these cookies year-round.
- Perfect for Gifting: Beautiful, delicious, and easy to pack up for friends and family.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box white cake mix
- ¼ cup holiday sprinkles (plus extra for rolling)
- ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 small)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire cooling rack
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until just combined.
- Gradually mix in the white cake mix until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in half of the holiday sprinkles for a festive pop of color.
2. Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight. Chilling ensures the dough is firm enough to shape and bake evenly.
3. Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the remaining sprinkles, then coat generously in confectioner’s sugar for a snowy effect.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the cookie balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies should be slightly underbaked for a soft, gooey center.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes! Yellow, red velvet, or even chocolate cake mix will work beautifully.
How do I keep the cookies gooey?
Avoid overbaking and ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking.
Can I skip the sprinkles?
Absolutely, but the sprinkles add a festive touch perfect for the holidays!
How should I pack these cookies for gifting?
Layer cookies in a festive tin with parchment paper between each layer, or wrap them in a decorative cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.
Conclusion
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a holiday baking classic, combining simplicity and indulgence in every bite. Their soft, chewy texture and festive appearance make them a hit at any gathering or as a thoughtful gift. Make these cookies a part of your holiday tradition, and enjoy the magic they bring to your celebrations!
