Christmas is a magical time of year filled with festive cheer, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of homemade Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies? These cookies are soft, buttery, and have a delightful sweetness that makes them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter. The gooey centers and sugary dusting make them both delicious and visually appealing, ensuring they quickly become a favorite among family and friends.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 140
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a simple yet impressive treat that captures the essence of the holiday. Their soft, cake-like texture and rich buttery flavor are incredibly satisfying. With a minimal ingredient list and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy success with this recipe. Plus, the cookies are perfect for sharing, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.
How to Make Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mixing
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins! The air will create a tender texture that makes your cookies irresistibly gooey.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the vanilla extract and eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Chilling and Forming Dough
Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a chewy texture. Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in additional powdered sugar, making sure they are fully coated to create that signature snowy appearance.
Step 5: Baking
Place the powdered sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers remain soft.
Step 6: Cooling
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust them with a bit more powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.
How to Serve Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Serve these delightful cookies warm or at room temperature. They make an excellent addition to any holiday dessert tray alongside milk or hot beverages. Consider pairing them with peppermint tea or a rich eggnog for a festive experience.
How to Store Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a freezer bag with layers of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect creamy texture when mixing.
- Measuring your flour accurately is crucial; spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake, as ovens may vary; remove them from the oven when they look slightly underbaked for ultimate gooeyness.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolaty version.
- Peppermint Gooey Butter Cookies: Stir in crushed peppermint candies or extract for a refreshing holiday flavor.
- Nutty Gooey Butter Cookies: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and nuttiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine, but the flavor and texture might differ slightly. Unsalted butter gives the best results. -
What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can make your own by blending granulated sugar until it becomes fine and powdery. Just remember to sift it before using. -
How can I tell if my cookies are done?
The edges should start to turn golden while the centers remain soft and puffy. They will firm up as they cool. -
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure you have enough baking sheets, and you might need to bake in batches depending on your oven size. -
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough too sticky to handle, try chilling it for a bit longer or adding a small amount of flour to adjust the consistency.
Conclusion
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a wonderful sweet treat that brings joy and warmth during the holiday season. Their gentle sweetness, soft texture, and pleasing appearance make them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting to friends, or enjoying with family, these cookies are sure to delight everyone. Give this simple recipe a try, and revel in the gooey goodness this holiday season!
