Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that brings festive cheer to any holiday gathering. Originating from St. Louis, these cookies have become a beloved holiday staple in many households. Their rich, buttery flavor combined with a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them irresistible. The traditional gooey butter cake was first created in the 1930s, and as it gained popularity, variations emerged, including these delightful cookies. Perfect for a Christmas party or as a sweet gift, these cookies encapsulate the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
For those interested in more about the history and variations of gooey butter cake, you can explore this article on Serious Eats. The versatility of Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies means they can be adapted with various flavors or decorations, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients for Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 ounces)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup red and green sprinkles
Instructions for Making Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and well combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, and stir until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the cake mix, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Fold in the red and green sprinkles, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated, then place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set at the edges but still soft in the center.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, while a festive treat, should be enjoyed in moderation due to their rich ingredients. Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, 8 grams of fat, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. The primary source of calories in these cookies comes from the butter, cream cheese, and cake mix. As with most cookies, the sugar content is relatively high, contributing to their sweet taste and gooey texture. For those monitoring their nutritional intake, it’s worth noting that these cookies are not particularly high in essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, or minerals.
Instead, they are a delightful indulgence meant for special occasions. If you’re interested in understanding more about balancing treats like these within a healthy diet, you can visit Healthline’s guide on healthy eating tips. They offer valuable insights into how to enjoy holiday treats without overindulging, ensuring you maintain a balanced diet throughout the festive season.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Pairing a beverage with Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies can enhance their flavors and create a delightful holiday experience. Due to their rich, sweet profile, these cookies pair well with a glass of cold milk, which balances the sweetness and richness of the cookies. For an adult gathering, consider serving a glass of sweet dessert wine, such as a Moscato or a late harvest Riesling, which complements the buttery texture of the cookies. Alternatively, a cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream can add a cozy, festive touch, making it an ideal choice for a wintery afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips and Variations
When making Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. First, ensure that both your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before you start. This will make them easier to mix and help achieve a smooth, consistent dough. If you find the dough too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls. This makes it much easier to handle. Additionally, you can experiment with different flavors by adding a teaspoon of almond or peppermint extract for a unique twist.
For those who love chocolate, consider adding mini chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate over the tops once they have cooled. If you wish to make these cookies even more festive, try using different colored sprinkles or edible glitter. Lastly, always store these cookies in an airtight container to maintain their gooey texture and freshness for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies, presentation is key to adding to the festive spirit. Arrange these cookies on a decorative holiday platter, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic a snowy scene. They make a beautiful centerpiece for any dessert table, especially when accompanied by other Christmas treats such as gingerbread men or peppermint bark. For a personal touch, consider packaging a few cookies in a clear cellophane bag tied with a festive ribbon. This makes for a thoughtful homemade gift or party favor.
These cookies are perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or as a sweet ending to a Christmas dinner. When serving at a large event, ensure there are enough cookies to go around, as they tend to disappear quickly. For those with dietary restrictions, consider offering a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring everyone can enjoy the holiday cheer.
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies Health Benefits
While Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a delicious holiday treat, they should be consumed in moderation. The primary ingredients like butter and cream cheese add a significant amount of fat and calories. However, enjoying these cookies as part of a balanced diet is possible, especially during special occasions. To make these cookies slightly healthier, consider using reduced-fat versions of cream cheese and butter, or incorporating a whole grain cake mix for added fiber. Despite their indulgent nature, these cookies bring joy and a sense of celebration, which is essential for emotional well-being during the holiday season.
Remember that the key to a healthy diet is balance, so savor these cookies mindfully and enjoy the holiday spirit.
FAQs About Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies
Can I freeze Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies. Simply place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I use as a substitute for yellow cake mix?
If you don’t have yellow cake mix, you can use vanilla cake mix or make your own by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter and cream cheese are not too soft, and chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.
Conclusion
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a wonderful addition to any holiday celebration, offering a delightful taste of tradition and festive cheer. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them with a cup of cocoa by the fire, these cookies are sure to bring joy. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and create a batch of these irresistible treats today. Share your creations on social media and inspire others to join in the festive baking fun!