As I was flipping through my collection of cherished holiday recipes, I stumbled upon a creamy, dreamy delight that whispers Christmas cheer: Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. Imagine warm, soft cookies that practically melt in your mouth, bringing a sweet smile to every face around the table. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy holiday schedules, allowing you to whip up a batch with minimal fuss and maximum joy. Ideal for office parties, cozy gatherings, or simply treating yourself, these cake mix cookies add a festive twist to your holiday baking. Are you ready to make your kitchen smell like Christmas? Let’s dive into the magic of these delicious cookies together!
Why are Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies a must-try?
Festive Delight: These cookies bring the magic of Christmas to your kitchen, filling the air with a warm, inviting aroma.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and a quick mix, you can create a batch without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Flavor: Substitute different cake mixes for unique holiday twists, or try adding nuts and chocolate chips for extra excitement.
Perfect for Sharing: Their soft, gooey centers make them a crowd favorite, perfect for gifting or bringing to parties.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Experience the heavenly blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests begging for more! Pair them with your favorite holiday drinks, or for another delightful treat, check out my Pumpkin Cookies Soft and Peanut Butter Energy recipes!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; you can use salted butter for a saltier flavor.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz.) – Adds creaminess and depth; low-fat cream cheese can be a lighter substitute.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; consider using a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- White Cake Mix (1 package) – Acts as the base for the cookies; feel free to substitute with any similar flavored cake mix for variety.
For the Festive Touch
- Sprinkles (1/2 cup, divided) – Adds a pop of color and fun texture; use colored sprinkles or chocolate chips for different variations.
- Confectioner’s Sugar (1/2 cup) – Provides sweetness and a lovely powdered finish; for a sugar-free option, try powdered erythritol instead.
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for bringing joy to your holiday gatherings, making every bite feel like a warm hug from family traditions. Enjoy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Cheese
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease. In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 oz. of cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that sets the foundation for your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 2: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in 1 large egg and pour in 1 tsp of vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Continue mixing on low speed just until the ingredients are combined – about 30 seconds. Avoid overmixing; you want to maintain that fluffy texture, which is essential for achieving the delectable gooey centers in these cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cake Mix
Gradually add the entire package of white cake mix to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This step is crucial for your cookies’ structure, which should come together into a thick, sticky dough. It should take about 1-2 minutes to blend everything thoroughly, creating the perfect base for your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 4: Add Festive Sprinkles
Stir in 1/4 cup of festive sprinkles, folding them into the dough with a spatula. This adds delightful color and cheerful touches to your cookies! Aim for even distribution throughout the dough, ensuring that every bite embraces the joy of the holiday spirit. Once mixed, prepare to chill the dough for optimal results.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight if you like firmer cookies. Chilling is essential to help the dough hold its shape during baking and prevents spreading, ensuring your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies come out puffy and delicious. Enjoy the anticipation as the dough sets up!
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Once the dough is chilled, it’s time to prepare your oven for baking. Set it again to 350°F (175°C) if it has cooled down. While it’s heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. Having everything set up will help streamline the process as you form the cookies.
Step 7: Form the Cookies
Scoop rounded tablespoons of the chilled dough and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. To add more festive flair, sprinkle each ball with remaining holiday sprinkles and a sprinkle of confectioner’s sugar, giving them a lovely frosted appearance that screams Christmas.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Carefully slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as you’ll want them to look soft and slightly underbaked in the center for that gooey texture that defines these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 9: Allow to Cool
After baking, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period is vital for achieving the perfect chewy consistency. Once cooled completely, they’re ready to be enjoyed or shared, filling your home with holiday cheer!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive treat without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Simply follow the initial mixing steps, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain the cookies’ freshness and texture. Once you’re ready to bake, just scoop and roll the chilled dough, sprinkle with the remaining festive sprinkles and confectioner’s sugar, and pop them in the oven. This way, your cookies will retain their gooey centers and delightful taste, making the process super convenient for busy holiday schedules!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and delicious while retaining their gooey texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they are well-covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth goodness, briefly warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This refreshes their gooey centers and soft texture, just like freshly baked Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
These festive cookies are the perfect sweet treat to brighten any holiday gathering and can be beautifully complemented with delightful pairings.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The smooth and creamy chocolate flavor provides a decadent contrast to the gooey sweetness of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on warm cookies, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
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Peppermint Tea: Aromatic and soothing with a hint of mint, this tea pairs wonderfully, enhancing the holiday theme of the cookies.
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Milk: A classic pairing! The cold, refreshing taste of milk balances out the sweetness and gooey texture, making every bite delightful.
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Spiced Cider: Warm spiced apple cider lends a cozy feeling and festive flavor, complementing the holiday spirit captured in each cookie.
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Cheesecake Bites: Adding a creamy and tangy contrast, these bites enhance your sweet table while keeping every taste bud intrigued.
Embrace these pairings to elevate your cookie experience, making each gathering feel like a warm hug on a cold winter night!
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
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Don’t Overmix: To maintain the perfect texture, mix the dough just until combined after adding the cake mix. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill Time Matters: Refrigerating the dough is crucial! It keeps cookies from spreading in the oven, ensuring a soft and gooey center.
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Use Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, always line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes baking a breeze!
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Pinch of Salt: Consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the cookies, especially if you opt for salted butter.
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Check for Doneness: Cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They’ll continue to set as they cool, creating that signature gooey center in your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies and make them uniquely yours with these simple twists!
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Flavor Swaps: Substitute the white cake mix with chocolate, funfetti, or even pumpkin spice cake mix for seasonal delights. Each option brings a whole new taste to this classic recipe.
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for an extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the gooey texture. Trust me when I say the nutty undertones will elevate your cookies!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch that adds both flavor and visual appeal. It’s a perfect finishing touch for special occasions!
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Fruit Flavors: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity burst that works wonderfully with the buttery base. These cookie variations are bound to remind you of joyful holiday memories.
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Spiced Cookies: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, warm flavor that embodies the essence of the season. This small addition creates a delightful twist that everyone will rave about!
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Vegan Version: For a plant-based option, swap the cream cheese and egg with vegan cream cheese and a flax egg. These cookies will still maintain that rich, gooey center that makes them a favorite.
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Heat Things Up: If you enjoy a little kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the dough. This unexpected heat against the sweet cookie base creates a thrilling holiday surprise.
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Top with Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness. Pair this with a warm drink for a cozy evening treat that screams comfort!
Experiment with these variations, and don’t forget to check out my delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies for another festive baking adventure that promises happiness with every bite!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How ripe should the ingredients be?
Using room temperature butter and cream cheese is ideal, as it allows for better creaming and incorporation into the dough. I recommend leaving them out for about 30 minutes before starting the recipe for the best results.
What’s the best way to store Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they are well-covered to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies spreading excessively, it could be that your dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Be sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or even overnight for the best puffiness and gooey centers. Additionally, make sure not to overmix after adding the cake mix!
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Yes! If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, consider using low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg for a vegan version. For those with sugar sensitivities, you can substitute with powdered erythritol for the confectioner’s sugar.
Can I add different flavors or mix-ins to the cookies?
Very much so! You can experiment with different flavored cake mixes like chocolate or funfetti for unique variations. Additionally, feel free to swap out the sprinkles for chopped nuts, cranberries, or chocolate chips. Mixing in these alternatives will add delightful surprises in every bite!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies for the Perfect Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease. In a mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 oz. of cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Crack in 1 large egg and add 1 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing on low speed just until combined.
- Gradually add the entire package of white cake mix to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until blended into a thick, sticky dough.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of festive sprinkles, folding them into the dough evenly.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Once chilled, preheat the oven again to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Sprinkle with remaining sprinkles and confectioner’s sugar.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden, allowing for gooey centers.
- Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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