Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Name: Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 package cream cheese (8 ounces), softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces); 1 cup powdered sugar; Red and green sprinkles for decorating

Author: Natalie Brooks

Published: November 29, 2025

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Introduction to Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Ah, the holidays! It’s that magical time of year when kitchens fill with warmth, laughter, and the aroma of freshly baked treats. If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for a sweet treat that’s both simple and impressive. That’s where these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies come in! They’re the perfect solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without too much fuss. Soft, chewy, and adorned with festive sprinkles, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Get ready to add joy to your holiday gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Let me tell you why I adore these cookies. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for those jam-packed holiday schedules. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have 24 delightful treats ready to impress, which means you can spend more time enjoying the festivities. Plus, the melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the rich butter flavor will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, these cookies are holiday magic on a plate!

Ingredients in Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Now, let’s gather the magical ingredients that turn ordinary days into festive celebrations! Here’s what you will need to create your own batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies:

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and ensures the cookies stay soft and tender.
Cream cheese: This is the secret ingredient that gives these cookies their gooey texture. You’ll want it softened for easy blending.

Large egg: It binds everything together, ensuring your cookies have a delightful chewiness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this fragrant essence enhances the overall flavor, making each bite more delightful.

Yellow cake mix: This gives the cookies their sweetness and gorgeous color. Just the right base for a festive treat!
Powdered sugar: Not only does this sweeten the cookies, but it also makes them look fabulous when dusted on top.
Red and green sprinkles: These festive toppings bring holiday cheer and beauty to every cookie. Feel free to use any decorative sprinkles you love!

If you need exact measurements, don’t worry! They are waiting for you at the bottom of the article, along with a handy printable version. Happy baking!

How to Make Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Let’s start our delicious adventure! Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This little trick keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I always say, a well-prepped baking sheet is the first step to cookie greatness!

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. It should feel like a hug for your taste buds! Then, crack in the large egg and add the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until it’s completely blended. This step is key for that ooey-gooey goodness we’re aiming for!

Add the Cake Mix

Now it’s time to bring in the star of the show: the yellow cake mix! Gradually sprinkle it into the wet ingredients, mixing them well until they’re fully incorporated. Watch as your dough starts to take shape! The batter should feel thick and luscious, a sign that your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are well on their way!

Form the Dough Balls

With clean hands, scoop out a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a rough ball, about one inch in diameter. Once rolled, gently coat each dough ball in powdered sugar, ensuring they are nicely covered. This is where the magic happens! It’ll give your cookies that delightful sweet crust everyone loves.

Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Now that we have our little dough balls, it’s time to place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each ball. They will puff up as they bake, and trust me, nobody wants cookies that are too close for comfort. Space is the key to success here!

Bake the Cookies

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let those cookies bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden around the edges. This step is like waiting for a surprise party to start—the anticipation builds! You’ll know they’re ready when they start to smell heavenly.

Decorate with Sprinkles

The fun part comes right after baking! As soon as you take the cookies out, sprinkle the red and green festive decorations generously on top. The heat from the cookies will help the sprinkles stick. It’s like giving each cookie a little holiday outfit, adding cheer to your holiday festivity!

Cool the Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up a bit. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for avoiding a gooey mess and achieving that perfect chewy texture. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies!

Tips for Success

Always measure the butter and cream cheese accurately to get that perfect texture.
Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing, preventing lumps in your batter.
Feel free to refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes if it feels too sticky to work with.

Experiment with different colored sprinkles for a unique festive flair!
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: Any sturdy bowl will do, but a large one gives you space to mix freely.

Hand mixer or whisk: While a hand mixer speeds things up, a whisk provides a workout!
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works great, or use a stone for an even bake.
Parchment paper: A must for easy cookie release, but a silicone mat is a fabulous alternative.

Wire rack: For cooling your cookies, but a plate can work in a pinch!

Variations

Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist—perfect for holiday flavors!
Consider using gluten-free yellow cake mix to make these cookies friendly for gluten-sensitive guests.

Swap out the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a decadent chocolate version that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch and flavor.
For a festive touch, fold in some dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in each bite!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
Pair with a cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat.
Present on a festive platter garnished with fresh mint leaves for a cheerful touch.

Include a selection of holiday treats for a delightful dessert table.

FAQs about Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.

How do I store leftover Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay lovely for a week. If they last that long, that is!

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes, experimenting with different flavors can be so much fun! Chocolate cake mix or even spice cake mix would give a unique twist to your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. The possibilities are endless!

Why are my cookies flat instead of puffy?

If your cookies turn out flat, it might be due to melted butter or not enough flour. Make sure to measure everything accurately, and try chilling the dough before baking to help them keep their shape.

Can I add mix-ins to the dough?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits can add texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many mix-ins can alter the cookies’ texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking, especially during the holiday season. The joy of pulling a tray of warm Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies from the oven is like unwrapping a present! Each bite is a delightful reminder of togetherness and sweet celebrations. These cookies not only bring smiles to faces but also create lasting memories in our homes. So, whether you’re sharing them with family or gifting them to friends, know that you’re spreading joy with every mouthwatering morsel. Trust me, this recipe will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!