Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

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Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies – Soft, Sweet & Sparkling with Holiday Magic

A festive twist on classic gooey butter cookies—made with cake mix, cream cheese, and cheerful sprinkles

Introduction: The Cookie That Feels Like a Hug

There’s something magical about baking during the holidays. The scent of vanilla, the sparkle of sprinkles, and the warmth of a soft, gooey cookie fresh from the oven—it’s pure joy. These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are the kind of treat that brings people together. They’re soft, chewy, and dusted in powdered sugar, with a buttery richness and a pop of color from red and green sprinkles.

Made with just a handful of ingredients—including boxed cake mix and cream cheese—this recipe is perfect for busy bakers, cookie swaps, or cozy nights in. Whether you’re baking with kids or whipping up a batch for Santa, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so irresistible:

Base Ingredients:

  • Yellow cake mix (1 box)
    The secret shortcut—adds sweetness, structure, and buttery flavor.
  • Cream cheese (8 oz block, softened)
    Adds richness and creates that signature gooey texture.
  • Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
    Enhances flavor and helps the dough come together.
  • Large egg (1)
    Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest dough.

Coating & Festive Flair:

  • Powdered sugar (1½ cups)
    Creates a snowy, crackled finish and adds sweetness.
  • Holiday sprinkles (½ cup, red & green)
    Adds festive color and crunch—perfect for Christmas vibes.

Optional: Use gold or silver sprinkles for a glam twist.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Tip: Chill the dough for easier shaping and better texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl:

  • Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.

Add:

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix until well combined.

Stir in 1 box yellow cake mix until a thick dough forms.

Fold in ½ cup holiday sprinkles.

Cover and chill dough in the fridge for 30–45 minutes.

Tip: Chilling helps prevent spreading and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Scoop dough into balls (about 1 tbsp each).

Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar.

Place on baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

Optional: Add a few extra sprinkles on top before baking.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until:

  • Edges are set
  • Centers are soft and slightly gooey

Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Tip: Don’t overbake—these cookies are meant to be soft!

Step 4: Serve

Dust lightly with extra powdered sugar if desired.

Serve warm or store in an airtight container.

Yields:

  • About 24 cookies

Presentation Tip: Stack in a festive tin or wrap in cellophane bags for gifting.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday cookie swaps
  • Christmas Eve treats
  • Gifts for neighbors and teachers
  • Cozy movie nights

Pair with:

  • Hot cocoa or eggnog
  • Peppermint tea
  • A glass of milk for Santa

Tip: Serve on a platter with other holiday favorites like gingerbread men or peppermint bark.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Chocolate Gooey Cookies

Use chocolate cake mix and add mini chocolate chips.

Strawberry Snowball Cookies

Use strawberry cake mix and pink sprinkles.

Nutty Butter Cookies

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free cake mix and check all labels.

Mini Cookie Sandwiches

Spread frosting between two cookies for a festive sandwich.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 1 month.

Tip: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or warm in microwave for 10 seconds.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~120
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g
  • Fat: ~6g
  • Sugar: ~10g
  • Sodium: ~90mg
  • Fiber: ~0g

These cookies are:

  • Soft and gooey
  • Festive and fun
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of holiday joy, nostalgia, and sweet simplicity. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just indulging in a cozy moment, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles and sparkle to your season.

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