Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies: 5 Festive Secrets to Try

Ah, the magic of baking during the holidays! There’s something truly special about filling your home with warm, sweet aromas while sharing delicious treats with loved ones. One of my absolute favorites has to be these Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and just the right amount of festive with their colorful sprinkles. I remember the first time I made them; it was a snowy afternoon, and my kids eagerly helped roll the dough in powdered sugar, their giggles filling the kitchen. The best part? These cookies are so easy to whip up, you’ll find yourself making batch after batch! Trust me, once you taste that gooey center paired with the slight crunch of the powdered sugar, you’ll be hooked. They’re perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or just enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa on a cozy night in!

Ingredients for Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies

To make these delightful Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients. Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a smooth baking experience!

• 8 ounces brick-style, full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box of yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

It’s really important that the cream cheese and butter are softened before you start. Trust me, it makes mixing a breeze and helps achieve that wonderfully gooey texture!

How to Prepare Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these scrumptious Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a festive treat that’s sure to impress.

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350 degrees F. While it’s doing its thing, grab two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This step is crucial for easy cookie removal later on, so don’t skip it! Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to take these beauties out of the oven.

Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, it’s time to get mixing! Using an electric mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be fluffy and well-blended—this is the base that makes your cookies so gooey and delicious!

Combine with Cake Mix

Next up, grab that box of yellow cake mix. Slowly add it to your creamy mixture, stirring gently until a thick dough forms. It should be a bit sticky but still hold together. If it feels too runny, don’t worry; just give it a few extra stirs. You’re looking for that perfect gooey consistency that makes these cookies so special!

Fold in Holiday Sprinkles

Now comes the fun part—folding in the holiday sprinkles! Gently add them to the dough, taking care not to overmix. You want those vibrant colors to shine through without breaking them apart. The sight of the sprinkles popping up in the dough is just delightful and brings that festive spirit right into your mixing bowl!

Shape and Bake the Cookies

With your dough ready, it’s time to scoop! Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar for that signature sweet coating. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Pop them in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re just set on the edges but still soft in the middle. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is key to keeping them gooey!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips I’ve learned along the way. These little nuggets of wisdom will help you navigate any baking bumps and ensure a delightful result!

Use Quality Ingredients

Don’t skimp on quality! Using full-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Trust me, it’s worth it for that gooey center. If you need a lighter option, you can try low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different.

Don’t Overmix the Dough

When combining your ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to denser cookies rather than the soft, gooey treats we’re aiming for. Just a few gentle stirs after adding the cake mix will do the trick!

Experiment with Flavors

Want to switch things up? Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors! Chocolate, lemon, or even red velvet can take these cookies to a whole new level. Just make sure to match the sprinkles with the flavor for that festive touch!

Chill the Dough for Extra Gooeyness

If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before scooping. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the gooey texture. It’s a simple step that’s totally worth it!

Watch the Baking Time

Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them set on the edges but still soft in the center. If they look a bit underbaked when you take them out, don’t worry—the residual heat will continue to cook them as they cool!

With these tips, you’re all set to whip up the best Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies ever! Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key! I recommend placing them in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, they’ll stay soft and gooey for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain their delightful texture.

If you want to keep some for later (trust me, you’ll want to!), these cookies freeze beautifully. To do this, simply arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until they’re firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months!

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen cookie, just take it out and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them warm, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You’ll be amazed at how that gooey center comes back to life! Enjoy your festive treats anytime you crave a little holiday magic!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Hey there, before we dive into those delicious Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies, I want to remind you that nutritional information can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can’t provide exact nutritional values for these cookies, I can tell you that they’re a sweet treat that brings joy during the holidays. Just keep in mind that if you’re counting calories or other nutrients, it’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients. Enjoy baking, and let those gooey cookies bring a smile to your face!

FAQ About Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies

Got questions about making the perfect Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my favorite tips to ensure your baking experience is a breeze.

Can I substitute the cream cheese for something lighter?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a tad different—still delicious, but not quite as gooey. If you go that route, make sure it’s softened just like the full-fat version!

What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?

No problem at all! You can use any flavor of cake mix you have on hand. Chocolate or lemon cake mix can add a fun twist to your cookies. Just remember to match your sprinkles to the flavor for that festive flair!

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies are spreading more than you’d like, it could be due to the dough being too warm. Try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before scooping them onto the baking sheets. This helps them hold their shape and maintain that gooey center!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Great question! You’ll want to keep an eye on them as they bake. The edges should be set, but the centers will still look a bit soft. Trust me, it’s better to pull them out a minute too early than too late—those gooey centers are what you’re aiming for!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

You bet! These cookies are perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can either bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container, or you can freeze the dough balls and bake them fresh when you need them. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you’re using frozen dough!

With these FAQs answered, you’re all set to tackle any questions that might come up while making your Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies. Happy baking, and enjoy the festive magic!

Why You’ll Love Holiday Gooey Butter Cookies

• Super Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients, these cookies come together in no time. Perfect for busy holiday baking sessions!
• Decadently Gooey: The center is wonderfully gooey, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
• Festive and Fun: The colorful holiday sprinkles not only add a pop of color but also bring that cheerful holiday spirit to your dessert table.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy gathering with friends, these cookies are a hit and make for great gifts!
• Versatile Flavor: Swap out the cake mix for different flavors to create new variations, like chocolate or red velvet, keeping the fun going all season long!
• Store Well: They stay fresh for days in an airtight container, so you can make them ahead and enjoy them whenever the craving strikes!

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