Name: Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup salted butter, softened; 1 package cream cheese, softened ((8 ounces)); 1.5 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2.25 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup confectioners' sugar (divided); 3 teaspoons baking powder; 0.33 cup Christmas sprinkles

Introduction to Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When the holiday season rolls around, it’s the perfect time to whip up some festive delights, and there’s nothing quite like Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. These cookies are not only delightfully sweet but also bursting with gooey goodness that melts in your mouth. With their cheerful sprinkles, they bring an instant dose of holiday spirit to any gathering.

Why These Cookies Are the Perfect Holiday Treat

Imagine hosting a cozy gathering or a winter soirée and serving cookies that catch everyone's eye. These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are uniquely soft and chewy, offering a delightful contrast to the often crunchy holiday cookies we know. They’re remarkably simple to make, taking just 10 minutes of prep time, which means you’ll have more time to enjoy the festive chaos!

What sets these cookies apart is their rich flavor, thanks to the cream cheese and butter base, creating that irresistibly chewy texture. Did you know that cream cheese can elevate baked goods by adding moisture and richness? This is precisely what makes these cookies so special. Plenty of colorful sprinkles mean that they are not just tasty but visually enticing as well.

If you’re looking for a new tradition, or simply a crowd-pleaser for a cookie exchange, these cookies are a sure bet! Check out some great ideas on how to incorporate these festive treats into your holiday planning here.

Ingredients for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When it comes to crafting the perfect batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, the right ingredients are key to achieving that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. Gather these essentials for your festive baking adventure:

½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) salted butter, softened: This adds a rich flavor and creamy texture.
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: A must for that gooey consistency we crave!
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar: For the perfect sweetness that complements the buttery goodness.
1 large egg, room temperature: Helps bind the ingredients and creates a tender cookie.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: The aromatic essence that elevates the overall flavor.
2 ¼ cups (282 g) all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies yet keeps them soft.
1 cup (126 g) confectioners' sugar, divided: This adds a sugary finish and helps with that signature powdery look.
3 teaspoons baking powder: Key for light and fluffy cookies.
⅓ cup Christmas sprinkles: Because what’s a holiday cookie without a little festive flair?

These ingredients will not only fill your kitchen with delightful aromas but will also bring joy to your holiday gatherings. Did you know that sprinkles can brighten up any treat? Whether you’re baking for a party or simply indulging, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer!

Step-by-step preparation of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Getting into the holiday spirit can be as simple as whipping up a batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies! These vibrant, gooey treats are a delightful addition to your festive menu. Let’s walk through the preparation step-by-step to ensure you create a batch of cookies that are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to make.

Gather your ingredients

Before you start your cookie journey, it’s essential to have all your ingredients lined up. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) salted butter, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups (282 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (126 g) confectioners' sugar, divided
3 teaspoons baking powder
⅓ cup Christmas sprinkles

Make sure to take a moment to appreciate the colorful sprinkles; they’re the magic touch that makes these cookies festive!

Cream the butter and cream cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened butter and cream cheese. Using a hand-held mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it helps create that delightful gooey texture that melts in your mouth. The soft, creamy consistency should be both inviting and fluffy.

Incorporate sugar and eggs

Next up, add the granulated sugar to your creamy mixture. Beat until fully integrated. Once mixed, it’s time to toss in that room-temperature egg and the vanilla extract. The combination of these flavors adds a wonderful depth to your cookies. It’s also a great moment to ask yourself: What’s Christmas without a touch of vanilla magic?

Mix in the flour and baking powder

Now for the dry ingredients! Gradually incorporate the flour and baking powder into your mixture. Do this at a low speed to prevent a flour explosion in your kitchen! Mix until everything is just combined — overmixing can lead to those less-than-perfect cookies.

Fold in the sprinkles and shape the cookies

Gently fold in the Christmas sprinkles, which not only add color but also a joyful crunch. Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop dough balls onto your lined baking sheets, ensuring about six on each tray. Before placing them in the oven, roll each scoop in the remaining confectioners' sugar for that delightful powdered sugar finish.

Bake to gooey perfection

Finally, it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F and pop your cookie trays in. Bake for about 8-11 minutes, or until the tops are no longer wet. The aroma will fill your kitchen with holiday cheer. Don’t skip the resting period — let those cookies cool on a wire rack for about five minutes before indulging. Your homemade Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are now ready to be shared and savored!

For more delightful cookie recipes, consider checking out Food Network or Sally's Baking Addiction. Happy baking!

Variations on Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Chocolate Chip Version
For those who crave a classic twist, add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies batter. The melty chocolate mingles beautifully with the gooey texture, delivering a sweet surprise in every bite. It's the perfect way to delight your friends and family who can't resist chocolate!

Mint-Flavored Twist
To give your cookies a refreshing kick, incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the dough. This minty infusion will evoke those festive holiday vibes and pair excellently with crushed candy canes sprinkled on top before baking. Every cookie will taste like a winter wonderland!

Gluten-Free Adaptation
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check for a brand that contains xanthan gum to achieve that desirable chewy texture. Your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies will be just as luscious and enjoyable for everyone—no one will miss the gluten!

These creative variations can help you tailor these festive treats to suit everyone's palate, ensuring your cookie tray is the talk of the holiday season!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When making Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, it's all about achieving that perfect gooey texture. Here are some handy tips to elevate your cookie game:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This allows them to blend smoothly, making your dough ultra-creamy.
Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies—not what you're after!
Elevate Your Sprinkles: Use festive, high-quality sprinkles for a pop of color. They not only add flavor but also make your cookies look delightful.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; you want the tops to look set, not wet. Remember, they’ll continue cooking a bit once out of the oven.

For more baking advice, consider checking out resources like King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When it comes to enjoying your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, the possibilities are endless! These delightful treats are perfect for various occasions. Try serving them alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or a festive peppermint tea. The sweet and creamy flavors of the cookies pair beautifully with the richness of freshly brewed coffee, too.

For an extra festive touch, plate them on a decorative holiday platter and add some seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or mandarin slices for color. You could also include these cookies in a homemade gift box with a few other baked goods, creating a delightful DIY holiday gift!

Time Breakdown for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When the holiday season rolls around, these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies become a must-bake recipe! Here’s a quick time breakdown to help you manage your cookie-making plans:

Preparation Time

Get started by gathering your ingredients and mixing up the dough. This process will take about 10 minutes.

Baking Time

Once your dough is ready, pop those cookies in the oven! They will bake for about 8 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them just right—soft and gooey!

Total Time

In just 21 minutes, you can create a delicious batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa!

Want to dive into more festive recipes? Check out this holiday cookie guide for creative ideas that will impress your guests!

Nutritional Facts for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Understanding the nutritional details is essential, especially when indulging in festive treats like our Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. Here’s a quick rundown:

Calories

Each cookie packs approximately 131 calories, making it a delightful, yet manageable addition to your holiday dessert table.

Sugar Content

With over 20 grams of sugar per cookie, these cookies are certainly sweet! Perfect for satisfying those holiday cravings, but be mindful of portion sizes to keep gatherings enjoyable without the sugar crash.

Fat Content

Each cookie contains around 5 grams of fat, primarily from the butter and cream cheese. This adds to the rich, gooey texture we all love.

For more information on balanced eating during the holidays, check out this article on healthy holiday treats. Enjoy every bite of your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies while keeping an eye on your nutritional goals!

FAQ about Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies can be easily frozen. Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply let them thaw at room temperature. A quick reheat in the oven for a couple of minutes can bring back that wonderful gooey texture!

What if I don't have cream cheese?

No worries! If you find yourself without cream cheese, you can substitute it with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Both options will maintain that desired creaminess, ensuring your cookies stay deliciously gooey and flavorful. Need more suggestions? Check out this article on alternative ingredients.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cookie, try reducing the granulated sugar by ¼ to ⅓ cup. You could also swap in some dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate chips for added flavor without the extra sweetness. The joy of baking is in the experimentation, so feel free to adjust to your taste!

Conclusion on Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

In conclusion, Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are the perfect sweet treat to brighten your holiday gathering. With their irresistible texture and festive sprinkles, these cookies bring joy toany celebration. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful cookies with friends and family, creating delicious memories together!