There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the house during the holiday season, and Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are the ultimate sweet treat to embody that festive spirit. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that oozes with buttery goodness and melts in your mouth—yes, it’s as delightful as it sounds!
These cookies don’t just taste incredible; they have a magical way of bringing people together. I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering. My aunt, known for her legendary dessert critiques, took one bite and declared me the “Cookie Queen.” Trust me, if you want to bask in compliments this holiday season, these cookies are your ticket to sweet success!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- The flavor profile is rich and buttery with a hint of sweetness that’s simply irresistible
- Their beautiful golden color and powdered sugar dusting make them visually appealing on any dessert table
- Perfect for holiday parties or cozy family gatherings, they adapt easily to various flavors or additions based on your taste
Ingredients for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for easy blending into the dough.
Sugar: Granulated sugar brings sweetness; consider using a mix of brown sugar for added flavor depth.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of these cookies.
Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of our cookie dough; sift it for best results.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps create that gooey texture we love.
Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; it gives a lovely finish and extra sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm when the cookies hit those baking sheets. This initial heat is crucial for creating that perfect gooey center.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about two minutes should do it. You want it airy enough that you feel like you’re whipping up a cloud.
Add in your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once combined, pour in that lovely splash of vanilla extract to elevate the flavors further—your kitchen will smell divine!
In another bowl, whisk together your flour and baking powder until well mixed. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing unless you want tough cookies instead of gooey ones!
Now comes the excitement! Scoop out generous tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart—these babies will spread out like they’re auditioning for a musical number.
Pop those trays into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 15-18 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them; nobody wants burnt cookies unless it’s a comedy show gone wrong!
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks. While they’re still warm, dust those beauties generously with powdered sugar—this makes them look like little snowflakes fresh from winter!
Finally, grab yourself a cookie (or two) and take a moment to appreciate not just how they taste but also how they bring everyone together during this special season. Enjoy every gooey bite!
You Must Know
- These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are not just delicious; they are a festive delight that can turn any gathering into a holiday celebration
- With their rich flavor and soft texture, they are sure to be the star of your dessert table this season
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Preheat your oven while mixing the dough for efficiency. Start by creaming together the butter and sugar, then add in eggs and vanilla before folding in the dry ingredients. Finally, scoop out the dough onto baking sheets and bake to golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist. You can also mix in festive add-ins such as white chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies for added crunch and holiday flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before indulging.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly gooey cookies, don’t overbake!
- Aim for a light golden color at the edges while keeping the centers soft
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture
- Experiment with different flavored extracts to find your perfect combination
It was a chilly December evening when I first made these cookies for my family. The smell wafted through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen, and soon we were all gathered around, sharing stories and laughter as we enjoyed these gooey delights together.
FAQs :
What are Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic gooey butter cake, transformed into a delightful cookie form. These cookies are soft, chewy, and rich in flavor, making them perfect for holiday gatherings. They typically feature cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar for that signature gooey texture. The addition of festive flavors like vanilla and optional chocolate chips or holiday sprinkles can elevate these cookies even more. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for a warm treat or store them for later to share with family and friends.
How do I make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
To make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, start by mixing together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create a smooth batter. Incorporate flour and baking powder for structure. After chilling the dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until they are slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle. Allow them to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for that festive touch.
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! To do this, allow the cookies to cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature or briefly warm them in the oven for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
What variations can I try with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
There are numerous variations you can try with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies to suit your taste preferences! Consider adding crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch or incorporating seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough. You could also fold in mini chocolate chips or swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor twist. Each variation adds its own charm while keeping that signature gooey texture intact.
Conclusion for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies :
In summary, Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines rich flavors and a soft texture ideal for holiday celebrations. With simple ingredients like cream cheese and powdered sugar, these cookies can be made easily at home. Whether you choose traditional versions or experiment with fun variations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite during the festive season. Don’t forget to share them with loved ones or save some for yourself! Enjoy every gooey bite this holiday season!
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are the perfect festive treat to brighten your holiday season. With their soft, chewy texture and rich buttery flavor, these cookies are a delightful indulgence that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enhanced by a dusting of powdered sugar, they not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on any dessert table. Easy to make with just a handful of ingredients, these cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder together, then gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using almond or lemon extracts instead of vanilla. - Mix in festive add-ins like white chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies for extra holiday cheer. - Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
