There’s something magical about Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies that just screams holiday spirit. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that practically melts in your mouth, with a sweet, powdered sugar coating that makes every bite feel like a festive celebration. perfect pairing with cookies The aroma wafting through your kitchen while these cookies bake is enough to make anyone abandon their holiday shopping and rush home for a taste.
Every time I make these cookies, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the whole family would gather around the table to decorate cookies and share laughter. seasonal comfort food It’s the perfect treat for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or even just cozy nights by the fire. Trust me when I say this – you won’t be able to eat just one!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules
- The rich flavors and delightful textures will have everyone coming back for more
- Visually stunning with their snowy powdered sugar coating, they bring joy to any dessert table
- Versatile enough to adapt with various add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts
I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering; my cousin’s eyes lit up like Christmas lights when they took their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better flavor control; it ensures sweetness without added salt.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while powdered sugar gives that signature gooey texture.
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Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind everything together, providing moisture and richness.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the sweetness with its warm aroma.
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Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise beautifully and stay soft. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Lavender Cookies recipe.
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Flour: All-purpose flour creates the perfect base for these delectable cookies.
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Powdered Sugar: For rolling! It gives these cookies their signature look and an extra touch of sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. savory flank steak recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. This helps keep things organized and makes it easy to grab what you need as you go.
Preheat Your Oven : Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is crucial for achieving those perfectly gooey centers.
Cream Butter and Sugar : In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes; watch for that delightful pale color!
Add Eggs and Vanilla : Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. You want this mixture to be smooth and well-combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients : In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients until just combined; don’t over-mix!
Shape and Roll Cookies : Use a cookie scoop or teaspoon to form balls from the dough. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated – this is where they get their festive look!
Bake Time!: Place the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they’re lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are bound to become a new holiday tradition in your home! Enjoy sharing them with friends or savoring them yourself while wrapped up in cozy blankets. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- These Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful mix of chewy and creamy
- Their irresistible sweetness will make them the star of your holiday cookie platter
- Perfect for sharing, they also make fantastic gifts wrapped in festive boxes or tins
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper. Mix your ingredients in a specific order: cream the butter and sugar first, add eggs, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients for a fluffy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these cookies! Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even peppermint extract for a festive twist. breakfast with a twist Experimenting with flavors can create a family favorite that suits everyone’s taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper; they’ll taste fresh when reheated in the oven for just a few minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always chill your dough before baking to enhance the cookies’ texture and flavor
- Use quality ingredients like real butter and pure vanilla extract for the best results
- When baking, keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking; gooey is the goal!
Making gooey butter cookies always brings back memories of holiday gatherings filled with laughter and sweet treats. My friends can’t get enough of them, and I love seeing their smiles as they take that first bite! For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.
FAQ
What makes gooey butter cookies different from regular cookies?
Gooey butter cookies have a rich, creamy texture due to cream cheese in the dough.
Can I substitute any ingredient in this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or dairy-free options like vegan butter or cream cheese.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly, these cookies remain delicious for about one week at room temperature.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies! Soft and buttery, each bite melts in your mouth while a snowy powdered sugar coating adds a delightful sweetness. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition. Easy to make and adaptable for various flavors, they bring joy to any dessert table!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Use a cookie scoop or teaspoon to form dough balls; roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat fully.
- Place on baking sheets, spaced two inches apart, and bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
