Gooey Butter Cookies
When I think of comfort food, Gooey Butter Cookies immediately comes to mind. There’s something so special about these cookies that makes me feel nostalgic. They remind me of rainy days spent indoors, the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen as I eagerly await the first batch to come out of the oven. These cookies are the perfect combination of chewy and gooey, with a delightful dusting of powdered sugar on top that makes them look as good as they taste. Whether you’re whipping them up for a gathering or just indulging after a long day, Gooey Butter Cookies never fail to bring a smile to my face.
Recipe Snapshot
22 mins
10 mins
12 mins
Easy
130 kcal
1 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
7 g
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Baking Sheet
What Makes This Gooey Butter Cookies Special
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the reasons I love Gooey Butter Cookies so much is their versatility. They’re perfect for birthdays, holidays, or even just a cozy night in. It’s almost as if they were designed to be shared, bringing people together over a warm plate of cookies.
Easy to Make
With just a handful of ingredients, Gooey Butter Cookies are surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip them up; even beginners can achieve delicious results. The simplicity in preparation means that you can focus on enjoying the process rather than stressing over complex steps.
Decadent Flavor
The flavor profile of these cookies is another standout feature. The cream cheese adds a rich, tangy depth that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the powdered sugar and cake mix. Every bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that leaves you craving more.
Great for Sharing
These cookies are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re bringing them to a potluck, a bake sale, or just sharing them with family, people can’t resist reaching for seconds. There’s a sense of joy in watching others enjoy something you’ve created, and Gooey Butter Cookies are sure to win hearts (and appetites).
Memories Made Together
Making these cookies can also be a wonderful bonding activity. I love inviting friends or family to join me in the kitchen while we mix the ingredients and share stories. It’s not just about the cookies; it’s about the memories made along the way.
Perfectly Portable
Finally, one of the best things about Gooey Butter Cookies is how easy they are to transport. Whether you’re heading to a picnic or a friend’s house, these cookies hold up well, making them ideal for taking on the go!
Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients
When it comes to the ingredients for Gooey Butter Cookies, each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and taste. The combination of cream cheese, butter, and cake mix makes these cookies incredibly moist and delicious. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this treat to life!
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature: This is the star ingredient that gives the cookies their characteristic gooeyness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar, divided: This adds sweetness and helps create that delightful dusting on top.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature: The butter contributes to the rich flavor and helps achieve the right texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic addition that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 large egg: This binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 box yellow butter cake mix or yellow cake mix: This is the foundation that gives the cookies their sweetness and fluffiness.
Directions for Gooey Butter Cookies
Making Gooey Butter Cookies is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with a sweet aroma. The steps are simple, yet they result in something so wonderfully satisfying. Let’s get started!
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Add 8 ounces of cream cheese, ¼ cup of the ½ cup powdered sugar, and ½ cup of unsalted butter to a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the ingredients together until they are well combined and creamy.
- Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed in evenly. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1 box of yellow butter cake mix. Beat again until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), scoop the dough and roll it into uniform balls. Then, roll each ball in the remaining ¼ cup of powdered sugar until they are fully coated. This adds sweetness and a lovely presentation.
- Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches between each to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just start to brown. Keep a close eye on them, as you want them to remain gooey!
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 2 to 3 minutes. This allows them to set a bit before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Things Worth Knowing
- Consistency is Key: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This ensures they mix together smoothly, creating a creamy texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out, as they continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better your cookies will taste. Invest in quality butter and cream cheese for the best results.
- Mix Thoroughly: Scrape down the bowl often to ensure everything is combined evenly. This step prevents any lumps from forming in your dough.
Recipe Tips about Gooey Butter Cookies
To make the most of your Gooey Butter Cookies, here are some essential tips you might find helpful.
- Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but I bet they won’t last that long!
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll be perfect for whenever you need a sweet treat.
- Pairing: Try serving Gooey Butter Cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a delightful treat.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for an extra twist on flavor.
- Decoration: You can drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cooled cookies for an elegant touch.
- Mixing Methods: If you want a more intense flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, as it adds a deeper sweetness.
What to Pair With Gooey Butter Cookies
When it comes to serving Gooey Butter Cookies, there are plenty of delightful options to consider. Here are some ideas:
- Pair with Ice Cream: These cookies make a delicious base for an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor to complement the gooey goodness.
- Serve at Parties: Gooey Butter Cookies are great for celebrations. They can be served on buffet tables or as part of dessert platters.
- Perfect for Coffee Breaks: These cookies are a great accompaniment to coffee or tea, making your afternoon pick-me-up a bit sweeter.
- Seasonal Treat: While perfect year-round, consider making them during the holidays for a festive touch. Their sweetness is perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Gifts from the Kitchen: Package these cookies in a lovely box or tin to give as gifts. Everyone loves homemade treats!
- Perfect for Kids’ Events: Kids will love these cookies, making them ideal for school events, birthday parties, or family gatherings.
FAQ
Conclusion
Gooey Butter Cookies are truly a delightful treat that brings joy with each bite, combining the rich flavors of cream cheese and cake mix into a wonderfully gooey cookie. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo. I encourage you to try making these cookies today; you won’t be disappointed!
Gooey Butter Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar divided
- ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 box yellow butter cake mix or yellow cake mix
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Add 8 ounces cream cheese, ¼ cup of the ½ cup powdered sugar, and ½ cup unsalted butter to a large bowl and beat with a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until combined.
- Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bow, then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1 box yellow butter cake mix. Beat until combined.
- Use a medium cookie scoop, about 2 tablespoons, to scoop the dough. Roll the scooped dough into uniform balls and then roll them in the remaining ¼ cup powdered sugar until coated.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges of the cookies just start to brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling.
Notes
- Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but I bet they won’t last that long!
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll be perfect for whenever you need a sweet treat.
- Pairing: Try serving Gooey Butter Cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a delightful treat.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for an extra twist on flavor.
- Decoration: You can drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cooled cookies for an elegant touch.
- Mixing Methods: If you want a more intense flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, as it adds a deeper sweetness.
