Every holiday season calls for a cookie that stands out, and these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are just that. Packed with rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re sure to be the star of your cookie tray.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a rich, tender base that’s irresistibly soft.
- A dusting of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but gives them a festive snowy appearance.
- Simple ingredients come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
- The cookies have a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, thanks to the cream cheese.
- They’re versatile, allowing for various mix-ins and toppings to suit any taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Equipment Needed
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: Letting your butter and cream cheese come to room temperature ensures a smoother dough.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop once you no longer see streaks of flour.
Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Tip: The cookies will be soft when they come out but will firm up as they cool.
Cool and Dust
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once completely cool, dust generously with powdered sugar for that classic ooey gooey look.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra festive touch, add a drop of red or green food coloring to the dough before baking. If you’re short on time, you can use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough quickly. For a nutty flavor, consider folding in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough. To ensure your cookies are perfectly round, roll them between your palms until smooth before baking. If you prefer a crisper cookie, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent overbaking.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a classic twist.
- Peppermint: Add 1/2 tsp peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.
- Lemon: Incorporate the zest of one lemon and a tsp of lemon juice for a citrusy flavor.
- Almond: Substitute almond extract for vanilla and sprinkle with sliced almonds before baking.
- Double Chocolate: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and mix in white chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking. This makes them perfect for holiday prep when you’re short on time.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread more than desired, it might be because the butter was too soft or the dough was too warm. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Summary
These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are a must-try for anyone looking to add a little extra joy to their holiday baking. With their rich flavor, soft texture, and festive appearance, they’re sure to become a new tradition.