Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe: A Festive Delight
The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence and celebration, and few treats encapsulate the spirit of Christmas quite like Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies. These rich, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Combining buttery decadence with a soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Explore more holiday dessert ideas in our Festive Baking Collection.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Effortless to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, these cookies are as easy as they are delicious.
- Festive Appeal: Their powdered sugar coating resembles freshly fallen snow, making them ideal for holiday gatherings.
- Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite holiday flavors like peppermint or cinnamon.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies package beautifully, making them a thoughtful homemade gift.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe: A Festive Delight
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes12
minutes120
kcalIngredients
Butter: 1/2 cup (softened).
Cream Cheese: 8 oz (softened).
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (for coating).
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
– In a large bowl, cream together butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
– Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
– In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms - Chill the Dough:
– Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle. - Bake:
Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Why Room Temperature Ingredients Are Key for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- How to Avoid Overbaking Your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Proper chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Flavor Variations for Your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Peppermint Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into the powdered sugar coating for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these cookies alongside a cup of hot cocoa, spiced cider, or eggnog for the ultimate holiday treat. They also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a festive latte.
Pair these cookies with a warm drink from our Hot Beverage Collection.
Why These Cookies Are a Holiday Must-Have
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of the season. Their snowy, sugar-dusted appearance adds a festive touch to any cookie platter, while their rich, buttery flavor delights guests of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for the perfect edible gift, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
- Yes! Prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
- Substitute with mascarpone for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
- Can I Add Mix-Ins?
- Absolutely! Try folding in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- How Do I Prevent the Dough From Sticking?
- Dust your hands with powdered sugar before rolling the dough into balls.
Gifting Ideas
Package these cookies in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags tied with holiday-themed ribbons. Include a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch that your loved ones will appreciate.
Conclusion
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their tender texture, buttery richness, and snowy appearance capture the magic of the season in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet moment with a warm beverage, these cookies are the perfect festive treat. Gather your ingredients, embrace the holiday spirit, and whip up a batch of these irresistible cookies today!