Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies

Every holiday season, I find myself chasing the sweet memories of my childhood, and nothing brings those feelings rushing back like making Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies. I remember standing on a stool next to my mom, our kitchen filled with the warm scent of butter and vanilla. We'd roll the dough into little balls, laughing as we got flour everywhere, and then we'd wait impatiently for those cookies to bake. The moment they came out of the oven, we'd sprinkle them with powdered sugar, and I'd sneak a warm one before they even cooled down. It's a tradition that has stuck with me, and now I get to share it with my family!

These cookies are perfect for the holidays because they're not just delicious; they're incredibly easy to make and a delight to decorate. The gooey texture and rich flavor make them a hit at any gathering, whether you're hosting a big family dinner or just having a cozy night in. Plus, they're a wonderful way to get everyone involved in the kitchen, making memories just like I did with my mom. So, let's dive into this delightful recipe that's sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You'll Love "Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies"

• Quick prep time: You can whip these cookies up in just 15 minutes!
• Minimal ingredients: With only a handful of staples, you probably have everything on hand.
• Family-friendly: Everyone, from little helpers to grandmas, can join in on the fun.
• Gooey goodness: The cream cheese keeps them rich and soft, perfect for holiday nibbling.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze some for last-minute treats!
• Customizable: Dress them up with sprinkles or enjoy them plain-either way, they're delicious!

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 package yellow cake mix
• 1 large egg
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature (Philadelphia brand is a favorite!)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Festive sprinkles, optional for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to ensuring your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly gooey!

Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy spatula, mix until everything is nice and smooth-this should only take a minute or two.
2. Add the yellow cake mix and the large egg to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. Don't worry if it looks a little thick; that's just how it should be!

Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help your cookies not stick and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They'll spread a little while baking, so give them some room!

Bake the Cookies

1. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be lightly golden but the centers to stay soft and gooey!
2. Once the time's up, carefully pull the baking sheet out of the oven and let the cookies sit for a couple of minutes. This helps them firm up just a bit before moving them!

Cool and Decorate

1. Transfer the cookies onto a wire rack to cool completely. If you don't have a wire rack, you can just set them aside on a plate.
2. Once they've cooled down a bit, it's time to dust them with powdered sugar. Use a sifter or a fine mesh strainer for a lovely even coating!
3. If you're feeling festive, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top-this makes them extra special and fun! Enjoy your beautiful gooey cookies!

Variations

• For a chocolate twist, substitute half the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix.
• Add ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies for a festive peppermint flavor.
• Try using a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.
• Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
• For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and butter.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These cookies are best served warm, right out of the oven, but they're also delightful at room temperature. Pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat! Feel free to arrange them on a festive platter for gatherings and watch them disappear!

Storage

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy whenever the craving strikes!

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla.
• If you don't have yellow cake mix, a vanilla cake mix works just as well.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you prefer a thicker cookie.
• Feel free to add chocolate chips for a gooey chocolate surprise!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! After baking and cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy whenever you want a sweet treat!

What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese?

If you don't have cream cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese, or for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt. Just make sure it's plain and unsweetened to keep the flavor profile intact!

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They'll stay delicious and gooey, perfect for snacking anytime!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make these cookies gluten-free, simply replace the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. They'll still turn out just as gooey and delightful!

Final Thoughts

There's nothing quite like the joy of baking Gooey Christmas Butter Cookies to fill your home with warmth and cheer during the holiday season. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, share some laughs, and get your hands a little messy in the kitchen. Each batch is a step towards creating sweet memories, just like the ones I cherish from my childhood. So go ahead, don your aprons, and let's make this delightful treat together. I promise you'll be rewarded with smiles and satisfied taste buds. Happy baking!