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Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Deliciously soft, buttery cookies with a gooey center and a sweet powdered-sugar coating, perfect for the holiday season.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened Use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened Unsalted butter works best to control the salt.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Fresh vanilla makes a gentle but real difference.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar For dusting.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, cream cheese, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until glossy and smooth.
  3. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
  4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls, then press gently to make them round and even.
  5. Roll each ball in powdered sugar and place them on the lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Baking
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden while the centers stay soft.
  2. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

For a cinnamon-scented variation, experiment with tips from brown sugar cinnamon cookies. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Warm briefly to revive the gooey center.