Get ready to bake the ultimate festive treat with these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies! These delightful cookies are soft, buttery, and oh-so-gooey, making them a standout in any holiday cookie assortment. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or a cozy night in, this recipe promises to capture the essence of Christmas cheer in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about biting into a warm, gooey cookie that melts in your mouth, especially during the holidays. These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies combine the rich flavors of cream cheese and butter with the ease of yellow cake mix. Not only are they simple to make, but they also deliver a visually appealing and festive touch with their colorful sprinkles. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can make them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh out of the oven whenever you please.
Introduction
Every holiday season calls for special treats that spread joy and warmth, and these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies do just that! With their soft texture and delightful sweetness, they’re a fantastic addition to your holiday dessert repertoire. Not only are they quick and easy to prepare, but they also bring that nostalgic taste of childhood Christmases flooding back. Imagine the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, curling up with loved ones, and enjoying these sweet delights together.
Let’s dive into this fun and festive cookie recipe that will surely become a family favorite for years to come.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Red and green sprinkles (for decorating)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to ensure a light and fluffy consistency.
Step 2: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully combined. This step is essential as it helps to incorporate air which results in a lighter cookie.
Step 3: Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the mixing bowl, mixing until a thick dough forms. It’s important to add the dry mix slowly to avoid a flour explosion!
Step 4: Once the dough has come together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to handle and shape.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat evenly, creating a sweet, snowy exterior.
Step 6: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Lightly press a few red and green sprinkles onto each ball for a festive touch.
Step 7: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them! Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Note:
For the perfect gooey texture, keeping an eye on the baking time is crucial. You want to take them out when the edges are just starting to turn golden but the centers remain soft to ensure that signature ooey-gooey finish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies on a festive platter alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of holiday spice tea. Consider adding some extra sprinkles on top just before serving for an additional splash of color.
These cookies make a delightful addition to holiday gift baskets; simply stack them in a festive tin or box and share the holiday spirit with friends and family.
Tips:
- For an even richer flavor, consider using a flavored cake mix such as butter or lemon.
- Dust with extra powdered sugar after baking for a snow-dusted appearance that truly embodies the holiday season.
- If the dough gets too soft while handling, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to chill again.
Time Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 90mg
Conclusion
These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a cherished tradition that brings people together. With their easy preparation, festive appearances, and deliciously gooey texture, these cookies will surely be a highlight of your holiday celebrations. So gather your family, bake a batch (or two), and relish in the joy these cookies bring to the festive season!
FAQs:
Q1: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze-baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Q2: What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
A2: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, though it will yield a slightly different texture.
Q3: Can I use other flavors of cake mix?
A3: Yes! Experiment with other cake mix flavors like chocolate or red velvet for unique variations of these cookies.
Q4: How should I store these cookies?
A4: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them.
Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?
A5: Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix and be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Now, let the holiday baking begin! Enjoy your delicious creation and the joyful spirit it brings!
