The aroma of freshly baked Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies wafts through your home, creating an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug on a chilly winter day. These delightful little treats are not just cookies; they are the festive spirit in edible form—soft, buttery, and irresistibly sweet with a hint of holiday magic. festive pumpkin cookies.
Picture this: you’re gathered around the kitchen with family, laughter filling the air as you all try to keep your fingers out of the cookie dough. Each bite of these gooey delights brings back memories of holiday gatherings, where everyone is eagerly waiting for that first taste. Imagine serving them at your next holiday party and watching faces light up with delight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules
- Their rich flavor profile balances sweetness and buttery goodness in every bite
- Visually, they’re charmingly dusted with powdered sugar, resembling little snowballs
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion beyond Christmas celebrations!
Every time I make these cookies, my friends’ eyes widen in amazement as they take their first bite. The genuine joy on their faces makes every moment spent baking worthwhile.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; it adds richness to the cookies.
-
Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for a creamy texture and enhanced flavor. creamy cranberry dip.
-
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener is essential for that delightful sugary crunch on top.
-
Powdered Sugar: Use this for rolling the cookies before baking; it gives them a lovely snowy finish. cinnamon roll cookies.
-
Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for a deeper flavor.
-
Baking Powder: A must-have ingredient to give the cookies their airy texture.
-
All-Purpose Flour: This is your basic building block for the cookie dough.
-
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to help create a smooth batter.
-
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors beautifully!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving stuffing recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking during baking.
Create the Cookie Dough Base: In a large mixing bowl, blend softened butter and cream cheese until creamy and well combined. Use an electric mixer at medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until fluffy. For more inspiration, check out this creamy mashed potatoes recipe.
Add Sugar and Eggs : Gradually mix in granulated sugar until fully incorporated. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients : In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined; don’t overmix!
Shape the Cookies : Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each ball as they will spread while baking.
Dust with Powdered Sugar : Generously dust each cookie ball with powdered sugar—this will create that signature snowy look once baked!
Bake to Perfection : Place trays in preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks.
Enjoy these delightful Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies warm from the oven or stored in an airtight container for later nibbling!
You Must Know
- Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are not just delicious; they are a holiday tradition!
- Their creamy texture and sweet aroma will fill your home with warm festive vibes
- These cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or hoarding all for yourself during the holidays!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. Then mix in eggs and vanilla before gradually adding dry ingredients for a smooth dough.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond or add chocolate chips for a delightful twist. classic chocolate chip cookies These cookies can be as traditional or adventurous as you like!
Storing & Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extra gooeyness, microwave them for about 10 seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best gooey texture, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking
- Make sure not to overbake; these cookies should be soft in the center
- Always use fresh baking powder for optimal rise and flavor
I remember the first time I baked these cookies; my kitchen smelled like a candy shop, and my friends couldn’t get enough of them. Their joy made it all worthwhile!
FAQ
What makes Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies different from regular cookies?
These cookies have a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth, unlike traditional cookies.
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden while the center remains soft and slightly underbaked for that gooey effect.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! These soft, buttery delights are easy to make and burst with flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings. With a snow-dusted finish and a gooey center, they bring warmth and joy to every bite. Treat your family and friends to these irresistible cookies that evoke the magic of the season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
- Gradually mix in granulated sugar, then add eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing them apart.
- Dust each ball generously with powdered sugar before baking.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Cool on wire racks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Leave a Comment