Gooey butter cookies are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings. This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese, the sweetness of a yellow cake mix, and the velvety texture of butter to create a cookie that is irresistibly soft and gooey. These cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or for any festive occasion.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are standard pantry items like butter, vanilla extract, and egg. The two ingredients that might not be as common are the yellow cake mix and cream cheese. Yellow cake mix can be found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores and supermarkets. As for the cream cheese, it's typically found in the dairy section. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before using it for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients for Gooey Butter Cookies
Yellow cake mix: This provides a sweet base for the cookies. Any brand will do.
Butter: Adds richness and helps with the soft, gooey texture.
Vanilla: An essential extract that gives the cookies a hint of classic flavor.
Cream cheese: Its tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds creaminess.
Egg: It binds the ingredients together.
Powdered sugar: Used for dipping the cookie balls before baking and dusting over the baked cookies.
One reader, Gwenora Payton says:
These gooey butter cookies are a game-changer! The recipe is so easy to follow, and the cookies turn out absolutely divine. They're soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible. I've made them for gatherings and everyone raves about them. Trust me, you need these cookies in your life!
Essential Techniques for Making Gooey Butter Cookies
How to prepare the cookie dough: Combine the butter, vanilla, egg, and cream cheese in a mixing bowl and beat until fluffy. Then, mix in the yellow cake mix until well combined.
How to chill the dough: After preparing the dough, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help the dough firm up and make it easier to handle.
How to shape the cookies: Once the dough has chilled, roll it into small balls using your hands. Then, roll the balls in powdered sugar to coat them evenly.
How to bake the cookies: Place the coated cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
How to garnish the cookies: After baking, sift powdered sugar on top of the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and a decorative finish.
How To Make Gooey Butter Cookies
These moist, chewy, and gooey butter cookies are made of cream cheese, butter, and yellow cake mix, an easy cookie recipe that’s ready in less than an hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1boxyellow cake mix
- ½cupbutter,softened
- ½tspvanilla
- 8ozcream cheese,softened
- 1egg
- powdered sugar
Instructions
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Beat butter, vanilla, egg and cream cheese until fluffy.
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Mix in cake mix.
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Chill for 30 minutes.
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Roll into balls and dip in a bowl of powdered sugar.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes, and sift powdered sugar on top if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 152.47kcal
- Fat: 8.01g
- Saturated Fat: 4.66g
- Trans Fat: 0.21g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.03g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.36g
- Carbohydrates: 18.75g
- Fiber: 0.26g
- Sugar: 10.22g
- Protein: 1.63g
- Cholesterol: 27.23mg
- Sodium: 196.52mg
- Calcium: 57.48mg
- Potassium: 27.05mg
- Iron: 0.52mg
- Vitamin A: 69.80µg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Gooey Butter Cookies
When rolling the butter cookie dough into balls, try to keep them as uniform in size as possible. This will ensure that all the cookies bake evenly and at the same rate. Also, when dipping the dough balls into the powdered sugar, make sure to fully coat them for a sweet, crispy exterior. Lastly, chilling the dough is an important step as it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Don't skip it!
Time-Saving Tips for Making Gooey Butter Cookies
Prep ahead: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookie size and shape, saving time on shaping the dough by hand.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch of the cookie dough and freezing half for later use, cutting down on prep time for future baking sessions.
Bake in batches: Bake multiple trays of cookies at once or in quick succession to maximize oven use and reduce overall baking time.
Cleanup as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls while the cookies are baking to minimize post-baking cleanup time.
Organize ingredients: Pre-measure and organize ingredients before starting to streamline the baking process.
Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of chilling, mixing, and baking times, allowing you to multitask effectively.
Substitute Ingredients For Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe
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yellow cake mix – Substitute with gluten-free yellow cake mix: This substitute is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a similar flavor and texture to the original ingredient.
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butter – Substitute with vegan butter: This substitute is suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet. It provides a similar richness and flavor to traditional butter.
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vanilla – Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a delicious alternative flavor to vanilla, adding a unique twist to the cookies.
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cream cheese – Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy substitute for cream cheese, while also adding a boost of protein to the cookies.
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egg – Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cookies, serving as a suitable egg replacement in this recipe.
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powdered sugar – Substitute with granulated sugar: If powdered sugar is not available, granulated sugar can be used as a substitute, although the texture of the cookies may be slightly different.
Presenting Gooey Butter Cookies for Maximum Appeal
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Elevate the cookie size: Instead of traditional small cookies, create larger, more indulgent cookies to make a bold statement on the plate.
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Incorporate a decorative garnish: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the plate with a delicate sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible flowers.
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Present on a sophisticated platter: Choose a sleek, modern platter to showcase the gooey butter cookies, adding a touch of refinement to the presentation.
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Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve the gooey butter cookies with a carefully selected beverage, such as a vanilla-infused coffee or a rich, creamy hot chocolate, to enhance the overall dining experience.
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Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the cookies in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring they are presented in an organized and aesthetically pleasing layout.
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Highlight the gooey texture: Emphasize the gooey, decadent texture of the cookies by serving them warm, allowing the gooey center to ooze slightly for an irresistible presentation.
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Add a touch of sophistication with a dusting of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, consider delicately adorning the cookies with edible gold leaf, adding a touch of opulence to the presentation.
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Serve with a side of homemade whipped cream: Accompany the gooey butter cookies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, elegantly presented alongside the cookies for a luxurious touch.
Essential Tools for Making Gooey Butter Cookies
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Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
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Electric mixer: Useful for creaming butter and sugar, beating eggs, and mixing batters.
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Baking sheets: Used for baking the cookies in the oven.
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Cooling rack: Allows the cookies to cool evenly after baking.
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Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.
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Spatula: For scraping the bowl and transferring the cookies to the baking sheet.
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Cookie scoop: Helps to portion the dough evenly for uniform cookies.
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Oven: For baking the cookies at the specified temperature.
Storing and Freezing Gooey Butter Cookies for Later
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Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft and gooey, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies.
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For longer storage, freeze the cooled cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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To thaw frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature on the counter for about an hour. You can also warm them up slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their gooey texture.
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If you want to prepare the cookie dough in advance, roll the chilled dough into balls and coat them in powdered sugar as directed. Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
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To bake the frozen cookie dough balls, place them on a lined baking sheet and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to account for the colder dough.
How To Reheat Leftover Gooey Butter Cookies
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To reheat leftover gooey butter cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and gooey in the center. This method will help restore the cookies' original texture and flavor, making them taste freshly baked.
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Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cookies, as they can become too soft and lose their texture. Microwaving is a quick and convenient method, but it may not yield the same results as oven reheating.
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If you prefer a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. This method combines the benefits of oven reheating and the convenience of a smaller appliance.
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For a unique twist, try reheating your gooey butter cookies in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cookies are warm and gooey. This method will give your cookies a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, melty center.
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If you want to enjoy your leftover cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try warming them up in the oven or toaster oven before serving. The contrast between the warm, gooey cookie and the cold, creamy ice cream will create a delightful dessert experience.
Interesting Trivia About Gooey Butter Cookies
The gooey butter cookies recipe is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of cream cheese, butter, and vanilla with the convenience of a cake mix. These cookies are a popular dessert choice, especially in the Midwest region of the United States. The recipe's simplicity and delicious taste make it a favorite for many home bakers. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a batch of these delectable cookies to enjoy with family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, these gooey butter cookies are sure to be a hit. Try making them for your next gathering!
Is Making Gooey Butter Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The gooey butter cookies recipe is highly cost-effective for households. With simple and affordable ingredients like yellow cake mix, butter, and cream cheese, it offers a budget-friendly dessert option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it an economical choice. The delightful taste and ease of preparation earn it a solid 9/10 rating.
Are Gooey Butter Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The gooey butter cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe relies heavily on processed ingredients like yellow cake mix and powdered sugar, which are high in refined carbohydrates and added sugars.
- Butter and cream cheese, the main components of the cookie dough, are high in saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- The recipe lacks any significant sources of fiber, vitamins, or minerals, making it a treat that provides little nutritional value.
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing too much of its indulgent taste and texture:
- Replace the yellow cake mix with a homemade version using whole wheat flour, which will increase the fiber content and reduce the amount of processed ingredients.
- Swap out half of the butter for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado, which will lower the saturated fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
- Reduce the amount of powdered sugar used for coating the cookies, or consider using a healthier alternative like coconut sugar or maple sugar.
- Incorporate some finely grated zucchini or carrots into the cookie dough to add moisture and a boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Experiment with adding chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, to the dough for a dose of healthy fats and protein.
Editor's Opinion on This Gooey Butter Cookie Recipe
This gooey butter cookies recipe is a delightful twist on traditional cookies. The combination of yellow cake mix, cream cheese, and butter creates a rich and indulgent flavor. The addition of powdered sugar adds a sweet and satisfying finish. The recipe's simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, and the cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the gooey, buttery goodness in every bite!
Enhance Your Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Gooey Butter Cookies
Appetizers and Main Dishes That Complement Gooey Butter Cookies
Why trust this Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe:
The gooey texture of these butter cookies, combined with the rich flavors of cream cheese and vanilla, creates an irresistible treat. With a simple and straightforward preparation process, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and indulgence. The use of yellow cake mix ensures consistent results, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in the buttery, gooey goodness of these cookies to elevate your baking experience and satisfy your cravings for a decadent dessert.
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