**Introduction**
There’s something magical about Christmas cookies that makes the holiday season feel complete. Among the plethora of festive treats, Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies stand out as a delightful and indulgent choice. With their creamy texture, buttery flavor, and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa! Their unique blend of cream cheese and yellow cake mix results in a playful holiday treat that’s delightfully gooey and festive.
**Overview of the Recipe**
This recipe promises soft, chewy cookies that are bursting with flavor, making them an instant hit at any holiday gathering. Expect a tender bite that melts in your mouth, with a slight crunch from the powdered sugar coating. The preparation is quite simple—perfect for bakers of all skill levels. In just about an hour, you can whip up a batch of 24 cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends!
**History and Origin**
The origins of butter cookies can be traced back to various cultures that embraced simple, rich recipes made from readily available ingredients. The ooey gooey version, with its cream cheese twist, reflects modern baking trends that embrace creativity and indulgence. These cookies have become a staple in many holiday traditions, often shared at family gatherings, holiday parties, and cookie exchanges—along with warm stories and cherished memories that surround them.
**Ingredients**
To make these delightful Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 (18.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
– Optional: 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or holiday sprinkles for topping
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
Follow these simple steps to create your festive cookies:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until fully combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and slightly sticky.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
6. Form Cookies: After chilling, scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough (you can use a cookie scoop for uniformity) and roll it into a ball. Place the cookie ball onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, flatten the tops slightly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly gooey (they will firm up as they cool).
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. While they are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. If you’re using crushed candy canes or holiday sprinkles, sprinkle them on top while the cookies are warm for added festive flair.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then serve and enjoy your deliciously gooey Christmas treats!
**Pairing and Serving Suggestions**
These cookies pair beautifully with a deep, rich hot chocolate or a seasonal spiced cider. They are a perfect addition to a holiday cookie platter, served alongside peppermint bark or gingerbread cookies. These ooey-gooey delights also shine during cozy gatherings with family and friends, creating memories one bite at a time.
**Variations of the Recipe**
If you’d like to experiment further with these cookies, consider:
– Flavored Cream Cheese: Use flavored cream cheese (like strawberry or cinnamon) for a unique twist.
– Different Cake Mix: Swap out the yellow cake mix for red velvet cake mix for a festive flavor change!
– Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free alternative.
**Health Benefits and Notes**
While these cookies are certainly indulgent, the incorporation of cream cheese offers a creaminess and slight tanginess that elevates their flavor. For a healthier option, try reducing the sugar or using a sugar alternative. Keep in mind that, while delicious, these cookies are best enjoyed in moderation!
**FAQs**
– Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to two months. Roll it into balls and freeze them until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
– What if I don’t have cake mix?
You can make a homemade cake mix by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, though it may require a bit of experimentation.
– How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, and the center should still look slightly gooey when you take them out of the oven.
**Conclusion**
These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are not just a treat; they embody the joy, warmth, and sweetness of the holiday season. Their rich, creamy texture and festive presentation make them a must-try recipe this Christmas. Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and watch as they disappear in delight. Happy baking and enjoy your festive treats!