Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies: The 12 Ultimate Steps for Melt-in-Your-Mouth Perfection

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Soft, pillowy cookies with a rich, gooey center and a snowy powdered sugar coating — Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies are a festive favorite made easy with cake mix.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 (8 oz) block full-fat cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 box yellow or butter golden cake mix (15.25 oz)

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Optional: red and green sprinkles or sanding sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until light and smooth, about 2–3 minutes.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl and beat until well combined.

4. With the mixer on low, gradually add the dry cake mix and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to handle.

6. Place powdered sugar in a small bowl. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out 1-inch dough balls.

7. Roll each dough ball between your hands until smooth, then roll thoroughly in the powdered sugar until coated.

8. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.

9. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly under-baked.

10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes.

11. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool.

12. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened for a smooth, lump-free dough.

Do not skip chilling the dough — it helps prevent excessive spreading.

Double-roll in powdered sugar for extra snowy appearance and deeper crinkle effect.

Try swapping cake mix flavors to create variations like red velvet, chocolate, or lemon.

Great for gifting! Package in festive tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon.

  • Author: Jessica Lupone!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg