Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially around the holidays. These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. With a rich, creamy texture and a dusting of powdered sugar that glistens like freshly fallen snow, these cookies are both simple to make and wonderfully indulgent. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights, let’s dive into how to make these delectable treats!
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for rolling
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and beautifully blended.
- Gradually incorporate the yellow cake mix, stirring gently until the dough is fully combined, creating a rich and thick batter.
- To make the dough easier to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop spoonfuls of dough and roll them into balls, then roll each ball in powdered sugar until they are fully coated in a sweet layer of goodness.
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown, indicating they are ready.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, dust with additional powdered sugar once cooled, and get ready to enjoy these delightful treats!
Notes or Tips
- For a festive twist, consider adding in some chocolate chips or crushed peppermint to the dough.
- These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- If you want them to be extra gooey, keep an eye on the baking time and remove them when they’re just set in the middle.
Cooking Techniques
Beating the butter and cream cheese together until smooth is key for achieving that luscious, gooey texture. Make sure to let your dough chill for a bit; this not only makes it easier to work with but also enhances the flavors as they meld together in the cooler environment. Rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar creates that beautiful, snowy finish that makes these cookies so inviting.
FAQ
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, feel free to experiment! A chocolate or red velvet cake mix could make for a delicious variation, especially for the holidays.
What if I can’t find yellow cake mix?
You can also make a homemade cake mix or use a vanilla cake mix for a similar flavor profile.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just remember to roll them in powdered sugar after they are baked.
Conclusion
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are not only a breeze to make but also pack a delightful punch of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party or just to enjoy with a cozy cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to bring joy and sweetness to your festive celebrations. Happy baking, and enjoy every gooey bite!