As the first snowflakes begin to fall, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, whisking together memories of holiday baking and the incomparable joy it brings. Nothing captures the spirit of the season quite like these Easy Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and soft, chewy finish, they’re a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—using a cake mix, you can whip up a batch of these delectable cookies in no time. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with friends and family, adorned with colorful sprinkles that add a festive flair. Ready to elevate your holiday treat game? Let’s dive into this sweet and simple cookie experience!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: These cookies deliver an incredibly soft and chewy experience that melts away, making each bite a joy.
Festive Flair: Adorned with colorful sprinkles, they add a cheerful touch to any holiday gathering.
Simplicity: Made with a cake mix, they require minimal ingredients and effort, perfect for busy bakers.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these cookies, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile Flavors: Easily switch up the cake mix or sprinkles for different occasions—chocolate cake mix for a delightful twist! Try serving them alongside our heavenly Cranberry Shortbread Cookies for a festive assortment!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to substitute with margarine if needed.
• Cream Cheese – Makes cookies rich and gooey; Neufchâtel cheese can be used for a lighter option.
• Egg – Binds ingredients together for structure; no direct substitution recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor and aroma; almond extract can also be substituted for a different twist.
• White Cake Mix – The base ingredient providing sweetness and structure; ensure you’re using a standard cake mix for the best results.
• Sprinkles – Adds a decorative element for festive flair; use holiday-themed or any colored sprinkles as desired.
For the Coating
• Confectioner’s Sugar – Coats the cookies to provide sweetness and aesthetic appeal; no direct substitution recommended.
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are not just easy to make but also a delightful way to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Mix Base
In a large mixing bowl, blend together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8oz of softened cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. This creamy base sets the foundation for your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, giving them a rich flavor.
Step 2: Integrate Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed just until fully incorporated, ensuring no visible egg remains. This step adds moisture and binds the ingredients together, creating the essence of your gooey cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry
Gradually mix in a 15.25 oz box of white cake mix, blending until the dough comes together and no dry flour remains visible. Stir in ¼ cup of colorful sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed. You’ll see how the dough starts to become thick and sweet, ideal for your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least one hour, or overnight if you prefer a firmer texture. Chilling allows the cookies to hold their shape better during baking, resulting in that perfect gooey center we all love.
Step 5: Prepare Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your delicious Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies once baked. The warm oven will cook your cookies evenly, giving them that irresistible golden touch.
Step 6: Form Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, scoop out portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in extra sprinkles and then in confectioner’s sugar, providing a beautiful coating. Placing the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheet will ensure they have room to spread as they bake.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked. Pull them out when they have a light golden color; they will continue to cook on the sheet for a couple of minutes. This is the secret to achieving that perfectly gooey texture characteristic of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows the texture to stabilize while maintaining a soft and gooey center. Once cooled, these festive cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Treat your loved ones with a delightful spread that perfectly complements the sweetness of these holiday cookies!
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Hot Cocoa Bar: Create a warm and inviting cocoa station with marshmallows and whipped cream, enhancing the festive spirit of your gathering.
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Peppermint Bark: The cooling taste of peppermint adds a refreshing contrast, making them a perfect pairing after indulging in gooey cookies.
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Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits bring brightness and a touch of tartness, balancing out the richness of the cookies beautifully.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A mug of warm cider spiced with cinnamon complements the sweetness and adds a cozy atmosphere.
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Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy, rich ice cream provides a delightful contrast in texture to the soft, gooey cookies.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty and buttery bars enhance the festive theme and offer a delightful variation of sweet flavors.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses varies the tasting experience and can serve as a savory counterpoint to the rich cookies.
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Sugar Cookie Latte: Combining coffee with the flavors of sugar cookies makes for a playful drink that rounds out your dessert table.
Each of these pairings adds its unique flavor profile, ensuring that your celebration is sweet, satisfying, and memorable!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these cookies to suit your taste and occasion!
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Chocolate Twist: Substitute the white cake mix for chocolate cake mix, giving your cookies a rich, chocolatey flavor. It’s a delightful surprise for any chocolate lover!
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Different Sprinkles: Use pastel-colored sprinkles for a spring-themed cookie or vibrant sprinkles for a birthday celebration. The sprinkles add a festive look and allow for year-round enjoyment.
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Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the dough for added crunch and flavor. Nuts bring a warm, toasty element that complements the gooey cookie base beautifully.
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Orange Zest Boost: Incorporate a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest into the dough for a zesty, aromatic twist. This bright flavor will brighten up even the dreariest winter day!
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Almond Extract Variation: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a distinct nutty flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese, giving a delightful depth to every bite.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap the white cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities while still enjoying the same gooey goodness. You won’t even miss the gluten!
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Fruity Surprise: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips into the dough for a rich burst of flavor. Both options add a nice contrast to the sweet, gooey texture.
For even more delightful flavors, consider pairing these cookies with our scrumptious Buttery Pecan Snowball for a festive treat spread that will have everyone coming back for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the mixing steps and then refrigerate the dough for a firmer texture. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each batch is just as delicious when baked. If you need to prep even further ahead, you can also roll the formed dough balls in sprinkles and confectioner’s sugar, then freeze them for up to 3 months. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a stress-free baking experience and perfectly gooey cookies whenever family and friends gather!
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is chilled for at least an hour to help maintain the cookies’ shape during baking. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful gooey center.
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Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform sizes and baking consistency, a cookie scoop is your best friend. This way, all your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies will bake evenly and look delightful.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; slightly underbaking them will result in a soft gooey texture. Aim for a golden edge and a set center.
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Don’t Skip the Sprinkles: Adding extra sprinkles not only enhances visual appeal but also makes the cookies festive. Feel free to mix them up for different occasions!
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Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. They also freeze well for up to three months, making them perfect for future gatherings!
Storage Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and gooey texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can also warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for an extra gooey experience.
Reheating: When reheating, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh their texture if needed. Enjoy your delightful Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies even after the holidays!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! For your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted—this allows for better creaming with the cream cheese. For cream cheese, use full-fat for the gooey consistency, but Neufchâtel can be a lighter alternative if preferred. Always check for freshness on your eggs, as this is crucial to the structure of the cookies.
How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain the delightful gooey texture of your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing them up. If you find yourself with leftovers, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, which typically takes about 2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for extra gooeyness!
What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If you find your cookies on the dry side, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to keep an eye on them in the oven, aiming for a light golden edge but a still-soft center. Also, ensure accurate measurements of your ingredients, especially the cake mix—using too much can lead to drier cookies. If your cookies do dry out, a small sprinkle of water and a brief reheat in the microwave can help soften them up a bit.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when serving these cookies?
Very! These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies contain dairy and eggs, which are common allergens. If serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free cream cheese and a vegan egg substitute. Also, check the label on your cake mix for potential allergens—it’s always best to be cautious and provide alternative sweets for those with allergies.
Can I customize the sprinkles on my cookies?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely mix up the sprinkles to suit different holidays or personal tastes. For Halloween, use orange and black sprinkles; for birthdays, consider pastels or even themed shapes. Not only does this add a festive touch, but it also lets your creativity shine through!
Irresistible Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, blend together the softened unsalted butter and softened cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat on low speed just until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the white cake mix, blending until the dough comes together and no dry flour remains visible. Stir in the sprinkles.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a cookie sheet.
- Using a cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the chilled dough into balls. Roll each ball in extra sprinkles and then in confectioner’s sugar.
- Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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