Name: Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: ½ cup salted butter (softened); 1 package cream cheese (softened); 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup confectioners' sugar (divided); 3 teaspoons baking powder; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅓ cup Christmas sprinkles

Introduction to Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When it comes to festive baking, few treats capture the spirit of the season quite like Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. These doughy delights boast a rich, creamy texture that's downright irresistible and perfect for sharing with friends and family during holiday gatherings. So, what exactly are these cookies?

Originating from the classic ooey-gooey butter cake, these cookies transform that heavenly flavor into a portable form. Just imagine biting into a warm cookie with a soft and chewy center, dusted with a light sugary coating. The secret? A simple blend of cream cheese and butter, which not only adds depth of flavor but also ensures that your cookies remain deliciously moist.

Adding a festive touch, sprinkles come into play, giving these cookies their cheerful holiday spirit. Not only do they brighten up the presentation, but they also instill a sense of joy. You'll be surprised how quickly these cookies disappear at any holiday event! For an extra dash of inspiration, consider pairing them with a cup of hot cocoa or a warm mug of apple cider, turning your cookie experience into a festive celebration.

Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the full recipe for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies!

Ingredients for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

List of Necessary Ingredients

To whip up a batch of delightful Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, gather the following essential ingredients:

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

Brand Recommendations for Best Results

For optimal flavor and texture, consider using:

Kerrygold for your butter, as it adds a rich, creamy taste.
Philadelphia cream cheese for a smooth consistency.
Domino Sugar, widely trusted for its consistent quality.

These brands can elevate your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies from ordinary to extraordinary, ensuring every bite is a festive delight! Have you ever wondered why certain brands taste better? It's all about quality ingredients—your cookies will thank you.

Before you dive into baking, gather these ingredients, and let’s spread some holiday cheer one gooey cookie at a time!

Preparing Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Baking during the holidays is not just about fulfilling a tradition; it’s about creating memories, sharing joyous moments, and, of course, indulging in delicious Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. Let’s dive into the simple yet joyful process of preparing these delightful treats!

Gather All Your Ingredients

Before you get your hands dirty, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. You will 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

Having everything ready and measured will make the process smooth and enjoyable—no more scrambling to find that last ingredient!

Preheat and Prep Your Baking Sheets

Next, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This keeps your cookies from sticking and ensures an even bake, allowing you to enjoy the perfect texture when the cookies come out of the oven.

Cream Together Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, grab your hand mixer and beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until they are combined smoothly. This step is crucial for creating that ooey-gooey texture we all love in these cookies!

Blend in Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

Once you have a luscious cream, blend in the granulated sugar, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Mixing these together adds sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s already starting to smell delightful!

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and ½ cup of confectioners' sugar. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamy mix, using your mixer on low speed. It might feel like a workout, but trust me, it’s worth every ounce of effort!

Fold in Christmas Sprinkles

Remember those festive Christmas sprinkles? Now’s the time to fold them gently into your cookie dough. This isn’t just for looks; it adds that extra dash of holiday cheer to your cookies!

Scoop, Roll, and Flatten the Dough

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out the dough, and roll it in the remaining confectioners' sugar. Place about six dough balls on each lined baking sheet. To ensure they bake evenly, slightly flatten each one using the bottom of a glass or your hand.

Bake to Perfection

Pop those sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 8-11 minutes. Your cookies are done when the tops no longer appear wet. The smell wafting through your kitchen at this point? Absolutely irresistible!

Let your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies rest for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the moments spent baking and savor every bite of these delightful cookies—you've truly earned them!

Variations on Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

There’s nothing like a batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies to spread holiday cheer! But why not mix it up? Here are some delightful variations that you might enjoy.

Chocolate Chip Version

Want to add a chocolate twist? Simply fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into your cookie dough. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with chocolate, making each bite an indulgent treat your friends and family will adore!

Nutty Addition with Pecans or Walnuts

For a crunchy surprise, add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter. The nuttiness enhances the richness of the cookies, adding a lovely texture and flavor depth. Just imagine all those flavors harmonizing in your mouth!

Gluten-Free Alternative

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. This simple swap ensures that everyone can enjoy the magic of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies without compromising on taste.

Experiment with these variations to find your favorite! Each version brings something unique to the table, making your holiday baking a joyful journey.

Baking tips for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

How to achieve the perfect texture

To get those ooey gooey vibes just right, aim for the perfect balance of ingredients. Ensure your butter and cream cheese are truly softened to room temperature; this allows for smooth blending and a light batter. Avoid over-mixing after adding the flour—this can lead to tougher cookies. For that wonderfully soft center, pull the cookies from the oven when the tops are just set but still look slightly under-baked.

Avoiding common mistakes

One common pitfall is not measuring your flour properly; too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the scoop and level method to measure accurately. Additionally, make sure the baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Finally, remember to allow your cookies to cool a bit before transferring them; they need that time to firm up and maintain their lovely, gooey texture. For more tips, check out resources from The Kitchn.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Pairing with Holiday Drinks

When it comes to enjoying your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, consider serving them alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or a festive peppermint tea. The creamy sweetness of the cookies beautifully complements the rich flavors of chocolate, creating a delightful balance. If you want something with a bit of a zing, pair them with a homemade gingerbread latte. This combo will make your taste buds sing and keep your guests cozy during the holidays!

Ideal Placement for Festive Presentations

Presentation is everything, especially during the holiday season! Arrange your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies on a cheerful platter surrounded by pine branches or placed in decorative tins. You might also consider stacking them in festive mason jars, tied with a colorful ribbon. This not only adds a pop of color to your table but also creates an enticing display that will have everyone reaching for more. For more serving ideas, check out these festive presentation tips.

Your cookies can transform a simple get-together into a memorable celebration!

Time details for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Preparation time

Get ready to indulge in some holiday sweetness! The preparation time for your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies is a quick 15 minutes. That’s just enough time to gather your ingredients and get into the festive spirit!

Baking time

Once you’ve rolled your dough into delightful little balls, they’ll bake in the oven for just 8-11 minutes. The smell of buttery goodness will fill your kitchen faster than you can say “Christmas cookies!”

Total time

In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of delicious Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies ready to enjoy. Perfect for a last-minute treat or a holiday gathering!

Take a look at resources like King Arthur Baking for more inspiration on baking times and tips. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Nutritional Information for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

When it comes to enjoying delicious treats like Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, it's important to know what you're indulging in. Here’s a handy breakdown of the nutritional info per cookie:

Calories

Each delightful Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookie contains approximately 150 calories. This makes them an indulgent treat, so it’s perfect for sharing during the festive season!

Sugar Content

With about 10 grams of sugar, these cookies are sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without being overly sugary. If you're looking for a classic holiday flavor, these are a must-try!

Fats

Each cookie boasts around 7 grams of fat, primarily coming from the butter and cream cheese. While they are rich, moderation is key, and pairing them with a healthy meal can balance your day.

If you're curious about more specifics or health tips, websites like Healthline and Verywell Fit offer extensive nutritional breakdowns to help you make informed choices!

Enjoy your baking and the delightful flavors of the holiday season!

FAQs about Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies freeze wonderfully. Once they are completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before diving back in!

What’s the secret to making them gooey?

The magic of gooeyness comes from the combination of cream cheese and the right bake time. Ensure you don’t overbake them; the tops shouldn’t look wet when they come out. A slight underbake maintains that lovely, melty texture that you crave.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Leftover cookies are best stored at room temperature in a sealed container. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them, but remember that refrigeration might alter their gooey texture slightly.

For more tips on cookies and baking, check out King Arthur Baking for more insights!

Conclusion on Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

In summary, Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are simple to make and guaranteed to impress friends and family at any gathering. Don't forget to enjoy the process and share these sweet treats!