Name: Gooey Butter Cookies: The Ultimate Soft and Sweet Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Full-Fat Cream Cheese (Use block-style cream cheese for the best results.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.); 1 Large Egg (Can be replaced with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce for vegan options.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Feel free to swap with almond or peppermint extract for festive variations.); 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow Cake Mix (You can substitute it with vanilla or white cake mix for a different taste.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sanding sugar can be an alternative for extra decoration and texture.); ½ cup Holiday Sprinkles (Optional; mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes work wonderfully as substitutes.)

As I sift through holiday recipes, one sweet memory stands out: the joy of sharing treats that spread love and warmth. This year, I’m excited to invite you into the world of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies—soft and chewy bites that transform the classic gooey butter cake into an easy cookie form. With a delightful cream cheese base and just a handful of simple ingredients, these festive cookies are perfect for cookie swaps and gatherings. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but their eye-catching sprinkles make them a cheerful centerpiece on any dessert table. Imagine the smiles as you share a batch with friends and family—who can resist that gooey goodness? Are you ready to embark on your holiday baking adventure?

Why Are Gooey Butter Cookies Irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is a breeze, requiring minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients.

Festive Appeal: With their cheerful sprinkles and soft texture, these cookies bring holiday spirit to every gathering.

Versatile Flavor Options: Substitute the yellow cake mix for vanilla or add peppermint extract for a seasonal twist!

Perfect for Sharing: These delightful cookies are crowd-pleasers, making them perfect for cookie swaps or gifting.

Soft and Chewy Texture: Expect a melt-in-your-mouth experience that perfectly balances sweetness and creaminess.

If you love rich, festive flavors, you might also enjoy these delightful Savory Rosemary Cookies or the indulgent texture of Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies.

Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Provides richness and moisture, ensuring the cookies are delightfully soft. Use block-style cream cheese for the best results.
Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor and a tender texture to the cookies. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together for that perfect chewy consistency. Can be replaced with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce for vegan options.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies. Feel free to swap with almond or peppermint extract for festive variations.

For the Cookie Structure

Yellow Cake Mix – This is the key base ingredient that provides sweetness and structure to the cookies. You can substitute it with vanilla or white cake mix for a different taste.
Powdered Sugar – Used for rolling the cookie dough, giving it a beautiful, sweet finish. Sanding sugar can be an alternative for extra decoration and texture.

For Decoration

Holiday Sprinkles – Adds a cheerful pop of color and fun to your cookies. Optional; mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes work wonderfully as substitutes.

If you’re ready to delight your taste buds and spread some holiday cheer, gather these essential ingredients for your Gooey Butter Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. This setup will ensure your Gooey Butter Cookies bake evenly and come out beautifully while keeping their shape.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of softened full-fat cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in 1 large egg and 1 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing just until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Cake Mix
Once your wet ingredients are ready, gradually stir in 1 box (15.25 oz) of yellow cake mix into the mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Ensure that the cake mix is thoroughly blended into a thick, cohesive dough, which will take about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and gooey!

Step 4: Add Festive Sprinkles
Gently fold in ½ cup of holiday sprinkles into your dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overworking the mixture. This will add a delightful pop of color to your cookies. The sprinkles not only make the cookies visually appealing, but they also enhance the festive spirit of your Gooey Butter Cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
For easier handling, wrap your cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and helps the dough firm up, making it less sticky. While you wait, this is a great time to enjoy some holiday music!

Step 6: Form Cookies
Once chilled, scoop out 1.5-inch balls of dough using a cookie scoop or your hands. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This sugary finish adds a delightful sweetness and complements the gooey texture perfectly. Place the formed cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the Gooey Butter Cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be set, but the centers will look slightly soft and underbaked. This is vital for achieving that signature gooeyness we love!

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets them firm up a little more before transferring them. Gently move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, where they can finish setting while maintaining that soft, chewy center.

What to Serve with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

These delightful cookies create a warm, festive atmosphere when paired with other delicious treats, enhancing your holiday gathering experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy texture and chocolate flavor complement the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy treat for winter nights.
Spiced Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a nutmeg-cinnamon flavor that pairs beautifully with the gooeyness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: As the warm cookie meets the chilly scoop, it creates a delightful contrast that elevates your dessert experience.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of this sauce adds a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the cookies, providing contrast in flavors.
Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or brie, as the savory notes offset the sweet and gooey cookies, making for a sophisticated accompaniment.
Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add vibrant color and a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies and enhance their festive spirit.
Coffee or Tea: Pair with a warm beverage for a comforting treat; a rich brew complements the creamy sweetness, inviting leisurely enjoyment.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The sweet and salty combination is irresistible alongside the cookies, creating a playful texture contrast.
Peppermint Bark: The cool, minty treat brings in holiday cheer and enhances the cookies’ festive flavor profile with each bite.

Gooey Butter Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious tweaks to the classic Gooey Butter Cookies recipe!

Cake Mix Flavors: Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate or lemon for a delightful twist. Each flavor offers a unique tasting experience that might just become your new favorite!
Extract Options: Use almond or peppermint extract instead of vanilla to infuse a holiday vibe. The invigorating scent will fill your kitchen with merry warmth, making your cookies even more special.
Mix-ins Galore: Fold in mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or even chopped nuts for added texture and flavor bursts. These additions elevate your cookies, transforming them into a personalized treat!
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free cream cheese. These adjustments keep your cookies indulgent yet plant-based.
Colorful Dough: Divide the dough and mix in different food colorings for festive hues. Swirls of vibrant colors can bring extra joy to your holiday gatherings.
Crispier Edges: For a different texture, bake the cookies a tad longer or slightly flatten the dough balls before rolling them in powdered sugar. This variation gives you a lovely contrast between soft centers and crispy edges.
Sandy Sugar Finish: Instead of powdered sugar, roll the dough balls in sanding sugar for an extra burst of sweetness and crunch. The glimmer on the outside makes them even more enchanting, perfect for sharing!

If you’re ready to explore more delicious treats, don’t forget to check out these delightful Savory Rosemary Cookies or indulge in the rich flavors of Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for busy schedules and make-ahead enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. If you prefer, you can also form the cookie balls and roll them in powdered sugar before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and place the chilled dough on baking sheets before popping them in the oven. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh, warm cookies with minimal effort, ensuring they remain just as delicious as if they’d been freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Gooey Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and gooey texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week; however, allow them to come to room temperature for optimal softness before serving.

Freezer: Freeze Gooey Butter Cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply thaw cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to bring back their fresh, gooey goodness.

Expert Tips for Gooey Butter Cookies

Chill Well: Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps prevent stickiness and ensures your cookies hold their shape while baking.

Accurate Measurements: Always use the correct size (15.25 oz) of cake mix for consistent results. Too much or too little can affect the dough’s texture.

Watch the Oven: Keep a close watch during the last few minutes of baking; slightly underbaked cookies will maintain that desired gooey center.

Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts or cake mix flavors to personalize your Gooey Butter Cookies for the holidays!

Proper Cooling: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring. This helps them firm up without becoming too crumbly.

Don’t Overmix: When combining the cake mix, stir just until everything is blended. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, rather than soft and chewy ones.

Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cream cheese should I use for the cookies?
I recommend using full-fat block-style cream cheese for the best richness and moisture. Avoid tub cream cheese, as it often contains added ingredients that can affect the texture of your cookies.

How should I store my Gooey Butter Cookies after baking?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re like me and want to keep them fresh a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to a week—but remember to let them come to room temperature for that soft, gooey texture before serving!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Gooey Butter Cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, layer them between parchment paper in an airtight freezer-safe container to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, just chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 20-30 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to scoop and roll in powdered sugar before baking. Just be patient; it makes all the difference!

Are there any allergens I should be aware of in this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains dairy due to the cream cheese and butter, and there are eggs. If you’re preparing these for someone with dietary restrictions, you can use vegan alternatives, such as a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce. Always check the labels of your cake mix too, as some may contain allergens like nuts or gluten.

Any tips for achieving the perfect gooey center?
To achieve that perfect gooey texture, keep a close eye on the baking time. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Enjoy that gooey goodness!