Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies: The Holiday Treat You Won’t Want to Miss!

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread some holiday cheer than with a batch of delicious Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! These cookies are the perfect combination of sweet and buttery, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have you reaching for seconds. If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet indulgent treat for the festive season, look no further—this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a holiday favorite for many reasons. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also bring a touch of festive magic to any gathering. The soft, gooey texture paired with the crunch of colorful sprinkles makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, spreading joy with every bite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 white cake mix
• ½ cup sprinkles, divided
• ½ cup confectioner’s sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat just until combined.
2. Combine with Cake Mix: Gradually add the white cake mix to the creamed mixture, beating until well blended. Gently fold in ¼ cup of the sprinkles.
3. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for best results.
4. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper.
5. Form the Cookies: Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Sprinkle the balls with the remaining sprinkles, then roll them in confectioner’s sugar until fully coated.
6. Bake: Place the balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the cookies are set but still soft. Allow them to cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter and cream cheese are well softened for easy mixing.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the cookies’ shape during baking.
• Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should remain soft and gooey in the center.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of sprinkles for a variety of textures and colors. For an extra festive touch, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While these cookies are a treat, each serving includes an approximate amount of:

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to maintain flavor balance.

How long do these cookies stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to a week.

Conclusion

These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are sure to become a holiday staple in your home. With their delightful flavor and soft texture, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike. Give this recipe a try and let us know how they turned out. We’d love to hear about your baking adventures and any creative twists you brought to the table!