As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen fills with delightful scents and warm, comforting vibes. That’s when the magic of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies comes to life. I first whipped up these gem-like treats during an impromptu cookie swap with friends, and I was amazed at how effortless they were to make. All I had to do was mix a handful of ingredients, and I was greeted with soft, chewy cookies that practically melt in your mouth.
These cookies boast a creamy, dreamy texture thanks to the cream cheese, making them the perfect indulgence for those chilly December nights. They’re not just any holiday cookie—these delightful bites invite endless creativity! Whether you sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips or swap the yellow cake mix for white or vanilla, the possibilities feel as limitless as the holiday spirit. They’re truly a crowd-pleaser at cookie exchanges or cozy family gatherings.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch (or two) of these festive cookies that will spread warmth and joy to everyone who takes a bite!
Why Are Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Texture: These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies have a unique melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes them stand out.
Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
Endless Variations: Get creative! You can switch up cake mix flavors and mix-ins for a personalized touch.
Festive Appeal: The colorful holiday sprinkles create a visual treat that’s perfect for celebrations.
Crowd Favorite: These cookies are sure to impress friends and family at gatherings, making you the hit of the party!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Full-fat cream cheese – Adds moisture and richness; use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version but avoid fat-free options.
- Unsalted butter – Provides flavor and softness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Large egg – Binds the ingredients together; no substitutes recommended.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; try swapping with almond or peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces) – Acts as the base for sweetness and structure; vanilla or white cake mix can serve as alternatives.
For the Coating and Toppings
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup) – Coats the cookie dough balls for added sweetness and eye-catching appeal; no substitutions recommended.
- Holiday sprinkles (1/2 cup) – Adds festive color and texture; mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes work well in their place.
How to Make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and a non-stick surface for your gooey delights.
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Beat together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until completely smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-combined for the best texture.
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Stir in the yellow cake mix gradually to form a thick dough. Be patient; it will come together beautifully—just make sure no dry patches remain!
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Fold in the holiday sprinkles gently, being cautious not to overmix. You want those vibrant colors to stay intact, adding that festive flair to your cookies.
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Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step is crucial as it makes the dough easier to handle and helps maintain the cookie shape.
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Scoop dough into 1.5-inch balls, rolling them in powdered sugar until thoroughly coated. This sweet coating not only adds flavor but also creates a stunning snowy appearance.
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Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and gooey.
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps them firm up just a bit while maintaining that delightful softness.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra holiday sprinkles on top for an even more festive finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity run wild with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
- Flavor Swap: Replace yellow cake mix with chocolate or funfetti for a unique taste experience. A chocolate version offers a rich contrast to the sweet creaminess.
- Extract Options: Try almond or peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a festive flavor boost, perfect for the holiday season. The aroma will waft through your home, enchanting your guests.
- Mix-Ins: Fold in mini chocolate chips, M&Ms, or chopped nuts for added texture and a delightful crunch. Each bite will surprise your taste buds!
- Candy Canes: Crush peppermint candy canes and add them to the dough for a refreshing minty touch. This festive addition gives a nostalgic nod to candy canes hanging on the Christmas tree.
- Sanding Sugar: Swap powdered sugar for colored sanding sugar to give your cookies a trendy sparkle that shines on your dessert platter. Who doesn’t love a little extra bling during the holidays?
- Coconut Flakes: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist. This will create a chewy texture that complements the velvety softness of the cookies.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix as a substitute, ensuring everyone can partake in these scrumptious treats without worry. They’ll still be just as delicious and gooey!
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor profile that will embrace the essence of the holidays. It’s like inviting the spirit of the season into each cookie!
What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
These cookies are the perfect sweet ending to your holiday gatherings, inviting warmth and cheer to every bite.
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Hot Cocoa: Pair with rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream to create a cozy, nostalgic experience. The chocolatey warmth complements the cookies’ creamy texture beautifully.
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Eggnog: Embrace the holiday spirit with a glass of eggnog. This creamy, spiced drink enhances the festive flavors of the cookies and is a real seasonal treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. The cold, creamy ice cream balances the soft, gooey cookies perfectly, turning each bite into a delicious celebration.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings a vibrant contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. The natural juiciness adds a lovely freshness that lightens the experience.
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Chocolate Peppermint Bark: For the chocolate lovers in the family, this crunchy treat adds both texture and a fun minty flavor twist that complements the cookies’ sweetness perfectly.
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Coffee or Tea: Pairing your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea can enhance the experience. The bitter notes of coffee or a soothing herbal tea highlight the sweet, decadent flavors of the Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
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Cheese Platter: Surprise your guests with a cheese platter. Creamy cheeses like brie offer a rich contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful balance.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: For a light and refreshing drink option, sparkling water with a splash of lime is a great match. The citrus zing cuts through the sweetness of the cookies and offers a palate-cleansing experience.
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Holiday Pecan Pie: If you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of rich pecan pie makes for a heavenly pairing. The nutty flavors of the pie beautifully complement the creamy gooiness of the cookies.
Expert Tips for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
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Cream Cheese Choice: Use block-style cream cheese, not spreadable, to achieve the best texture and flavor in your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly without leaving lumps in your batter.
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Avoid Overmixing: When folding in holiday sprinkles, be gentle to keep the colors vibrant and avoid flattening the dough for extra softness in your cookies.
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Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes helps maintain the cookie’s shape and prevents spreading.
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Check Doneness: Remember that the centers should be soft when you take them out of the oven; they will firm up as they cool, ensuring that gooey texture we all love!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious softness and gooey texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container to extend freshness for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to enjoy their delightful gooeyness.
Reheating: Warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their melt-in-your-mouth quality before indulging in your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients except for the powdered sugar and chilling it in the refrigerator. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop out the chilled dough, roll it in powdered sugar, and bake as directed. If your schedule allows, you can also freeze the pre-scooped dough balls for up to 3 months; just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before rolling in powdered sugar and baking. This way, you’ll always have fresh, gooey cookies on hand with minimal effort!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cake mix works best for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is the classic choice for these cookies, you can experiment with vanilla or white cake mix for a similar sweetness and texture. The flavor variations add an exciting twist to this festive treat!
How do I store Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, and how long do they last?
You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay soft and gooey. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just allow them to reach room temperature before serving!
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies? How do I do that?
Very! To freeze these cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that gooey texture.
What if my cookie dough seems too sticky to handle?
If you find the dough too sticky after mixing, don’t worry! Chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time makes the dough easier to scoop and shape, preventing your cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Are there any allergy considerations for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, definitely! This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and butter) and eggs, making it unsuitable for those with dairy or egg allergies. If gluten is a concern, feel free to use a gluten-free cake mix. Just check the specific mix’s size, as not all gluten-free mixes are the same.
Can I add other mix-ins to the Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize these cookies by adding mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or M&Ms. Just be cautious not to overload the dough, as this can affect the texture. Enjoy creating your unique festive version!
Indulge in Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies That Melt Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Beat together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until completely smooth.
- Stir in the yellow cake mix gradually to form a thick dough, ensuring no dry patches remain.
- Fold in the holiday sprinkles gently, being cautious not to overmix.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Scoop dough into 1.5-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar until coated.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.