Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, joy, and of course, baking delicious treats. Few desserts capture the festive spirit like Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. These cookies are a delightful combination of rich cream cheese, buttery goodness, and the subtle sweetness of cake mix. The result? Soft, gooey centers with slightly crisp edges that melt in your mouth with every bite.

Not only are these cookies irresistibly delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone looking to whip up something simple yet impressive, this recipe is your ticket to holiday baking success. Perfect for cookie swaps, family gatherings, or gifting, Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Overview of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using cake mix as a base, you save time and effort while still achieving a rich, homemade taste. The addition of cream cheese and butter creates a luscious texture that gives these cookies their signature gooeyness. Add a sprinkle of festive decorations like powdered sugar or colorful holiday sprinkles, and you have a cookie that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.

These cookies are versatile too. Swap out the flavor of the cake mix or experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips or crushed candy canes to customize them for any holiday theme. Their bright, cheerful appearance and decadent flavor make them a must-have for your holiday baking list.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Essential Tools

1. Mixing Bowls: One large for mixing the dough and a smaller one for holding powdered sugar or sprinkles.
2. Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For blending the cream cheese, butter, and cake mix smoothly.
3. Baking Sheet: Non-stick or lined with parchment paper for even baking.
4. Silicone Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the bowl and handle sticky dough.
5. Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: For evenly dusting powdered sugar over finished cookies.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent results.
7. Plastic Wrap: For covering the dough while chilling.

Ingredient List (With Measurements)

These cookies use just a handful of ingredients, yet they deliver big on flavor and texture.

Main Ingredients

• Yellow Cake Mix: 1 box (15.25 oz) – The base for the dough that saves time and adds sweetness.
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened – Gives the cookies their gooey, creamy texture.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened – Adds richness and flavor.
• Egg: 1 large – Helps bind the ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.

Optional Add-Ins and Decorations

• Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup – For rolling the dough balls and dusting over baked cookies.
• Holiday Sprinkles: For a festive touch.
• Food Coloring: Add red or green food coloring to the dough for Christmas-themed cookies.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: 1/4 cup – For extra indulgence.

Preparation Tips

1. Use Softened Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened to make blending easier and create a smooth dough.
2. Chill the Dough: After mixing, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
3. Roll in Powdered Sugar Generously: Coat each dough ball thoroughly in powdered sugar to create the signature crackled appearance as the cookies bake.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Use different cake mix flavors like red velvet, chocolate, or spice cake to add variety.
5. Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:
   • In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Add the Egg and Vanilla:
   • Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in the Cake Mix:
   • Gradually add the cake mix to the bowl, mixing on low speed to avoid splatters. Continue until the dough is fully combined.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This firms up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 4: Shape and Coat the Dough

1. Roll the Dough into Balls:
   • Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
2. Coat with Powdered Sugar:
   • Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring an even coating.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
   • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
2. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the tops are crackled. Avoid overbaking to preserve their gooey centers.

Step 6: Cool and Decorate

1. Cool on a Wire Rack:
   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Optional Decorations:
   • Dust with additional powdered sugar or top with festive holiday sprinkles while the cookies are still warm.

With their gooey texture and festive appearance, these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite. Their simplicity, versatility, and irresistible flavor make them the perfect treat for the most wonderful time of the year.

Serving Suggestions

The Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are versatile treats that shine in various settings, from holiday celebrations to casual gatherings. Here’s how to make the most of these delightful cookies.

Serve at Holiday Parties

1. As a Festive Dessert: Arrange the cookies on a holiday-themed platter alongside other desserts like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and chocolate truffles.
2. Pair with Beverages: Serve them with warm drinks like hot cocoa, spiced cider, or eggnog for a cozy holiday vibe. For an adult twist, pair with mulled wine or a creamy Irish coffee.
3. Cookie Swap Favorite: These cookies are a standout choice for cookie swaps due to their unique gooey texture and festive appearance.

As Edible Gifts

1. Holiday Gift Tins: Pack the cookies in decorative holiday tins lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful, edible gift.
2. Cellophane Wraps: Wrap stacks of cookies in clear cellophane, tied with red and green ribbons for a simple yet elegant presentation.
3. Include a Recipe Card: Add a handwritten or printed recipe card to share the joy of baking these cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Buffet

1. With Ice Cream: Serve the cookies alongside a vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a decadent dessert pairing.
2. As a Base for Trifles: Crumble the cookies to use as layers in a festive holiday trifle with whipped cream, pudding, and berries.
3. Holiday-Themed Display: Arrange the cookies in the shape of a Christmas tree on a platter, using sprinkles or powdered sugar to decorate.

Creative Variations

Take your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies to the next level with these fun and festive twists.

Flavor Variations

1. Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies:
   • Use red velvet cake mix for a rich, vibrant cookie that screams holiday cheer. Dust with powdered sugar for the perfect contrast.
2. Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies:
   • Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix. Add mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of indulgence.
3. Spiced Gooey Butter Cookies:
   • Use spice cake mix and add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, seasonal flavor.

Colorful Additions

1. Food Coloring Fun:
   • Add a few drops of red or green food coloring to the dough to make brightly colored Christmas-themed cookies.
2. Holiday Sprinkles:
   • Mix festive sprinkles directly into the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking for added color and texture.

Fillings and Mix-Ins

1. Candy Cane Crumbles:
   • Fold crushed candy canes into the dough for a peppermint twist.
2. Nutty Delight:
   • Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
3. Jam-Filled Center:
   • Create an indentation in the center of each dough ball and fill it with raspberry or strawberry jam before baking.

Topping Ideas

1. Drizzled Chocolate:
   • Melt white or dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a sophisticated finish.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting:
   • Mix powdered sugar with cinnamon for a spiced dusting.
3. Edible Glitter:
   • Sprinkle edible glitter over the cookies for a touch of holiday sparkle.

Nutritional Insights

While these cookies are indulgent, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of the festive season. Below is a general nutritional breakdown and insights into their key ingredients.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Cookie Approximation)

• Calories: 150–180
• Fat: 8–10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 18–22 grams
• Protein: 2–3 grams
• Sugar: 10–14 grams

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Cream Cheese

• Source of Calcium: Contributes to bone health.
• Rich Texture: Adds creaminess without requiring excessive fats.

Butter

• Flavor Enhancer: Provides a rich, buttery taste that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Contains Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Includes vitamins A and E, which support skin and eye health.

Cake Mix

• Convenience Factor: Reduces preparation time while providing consistent sweetness and flavor.

Tips for a Healthier Version

1. Use Light Cream Cheese: Substitute full-fat cream cheese with a reduced-fat version to cut calories and fat.
2. Replace Butter: Use a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option or olive oil for a healthier fat source.
3. Reduce Sugar: Use a cake mix with reduced sugar or opt for a sugar substitute in the coating.
4. Add Whole Grains: Mix in a tablespoon of oat flour or whole wheat flour to add fiber without changing the texture significantly.
5. Incorporate Dark Chocolate: Replace milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a lower-sugar, antioxidant-rich option.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Christmas

Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies stand out not only for their delicious taste but also for their versatility and festive appeal. They’re a joy to bake, customize, and share, embodying the warmth and cheer of the holiday season. Whether served at a party, given as a gift, or enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.

From their gooey texture to their endless creative possibilities, these cookies are a must-have for your holiday baking repertoire.