Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe
Introduction:
The Christmas season is the perfect time for indulging in delicious cookies that are easy to bake, festive, and, of course, irresistible. One of the most popular treats is the “Ooey Gooey Butter Cookie.” This dessert brings together the rich flavors of butter and cream cheese, creating a soft and chewy texture that’s perfect for the holidays. With a fun touch of red and green sprinkles, these cookies embody the spirit of Christmas and make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Let’s dive into making this delightful treat!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Red and green sprinkles (for decorating)
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer or a stand mixer for best results.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl and continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add the cake mix:
- Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the mixture. Stir it in slowly until a thick, cookie dough forms.
- Refrigerate the dough:
- Once the dough is mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle.
- Prepare to bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Form the cookies:
- Once the dough is firm, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat it completely.
- Decorate and bake:
- Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few red and green sprinkles gently into the top of each ball to add some Christmas flair.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as you want them to remain soft and gooey in the middle.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly without falling apart.
Method Overview:
The magic of the “Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies” comes from the combination of cream cheese and butter, which gives these cookies their signature soft and gooey texture. The yellow cake mix simplifies the process, making it quicker than traditional cookie recipes, but without compromising on flavor or texture. The powdered sugar coating creates a slightly crunchy, sweet outer layer, while the sprinkles add a cheerful burst of color to the festive treat.
History & Formation:
The ooey gooey butter cake originates from the Midwest, particularly St. Louis, Missouri, in the 1930s. It was created by accident by a baker who mixed the ingredients in the wrong proportions, resulting in a dense, sweet, and gooey treat that became an instant hit. Over time, the cake version was adapted into various forms, including the popular cookies we enjoy today. These cookies, much like their cake counterpart, are loved for their unique texture and their ability to hold a lot of rich flavor in every bite. The addition of Christmas-themed sprinkles brings a seasonal touch to the timeless recipe.
Conclusion:
Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, offering the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and festive cheer. They’re simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, and their gooey texture makes them a crowd favorite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a family gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress. And don’t forget, they also make a thoughtful gift when packaged beautifully in a cookie tin!
Lovers of the Recipe:
This recipe is for those who love a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience. If you’re a fan of rich, buttery flavors and easy-to-make desserts, these cookies will quickly become one of your holiday favorites. Lovers of soft, chewy cookies with a bit of a festive touch (thanks to the sprinkles) will appreciate the simplicity and indulgence of these treats. And with the powdered sugar finish, they’ve got a snow-dusted look that’s perfect for Christmas!
Methods to Enjoy with Lovers:
You can enjoy these cookies with friends and family in many ways:
- Pair them with a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy winter treat.
- Serve them at a holiday cookie exchange where everyone can try different Christmas cookies.
- Package them up as a homemade gift, wrapped in clear cellophane and tied with a festive bow.
Baking these together can also become a wonderful holiday tradition for you and your loved ones, filling the house with the delicious scent of fresh cookies and laughter. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and bake a batch (or two) of these scrumptious Christmas cookies!