Are you searching for the ultimate holiday treat that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe? The Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are the answer! These cookies are not just any ordinary dessert; they are rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Did you know that cookies are the most popular homemade holiday treat, with over 75% of households baking them during the season? Let’s explore how to create these irresistible cookies that will surely become a festive favorite!

Ingredients List

To whip up a batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Suggested Substitutions:

• Butter: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Cream Cheese: Substitute with non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan option.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a healthier alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect gooey texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving the ooey gooey texture.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add the granulated sugar to the butter mixture, continuing to mix until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, along with the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look soft; they will firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving for that festive touch!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per cookie (approximately 1 cookie):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	18g
Sugars	10g
Protein	2g

These cookies are a delightful indulgence perfect for the holiday season!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you want to make your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 cup.
• Add Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Incorporate Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies can be enjoyed in various delightful ways:

• Cookie Platter: Arrange them on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats for a stunning dessert table.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a decadent dessert.
• Gift Giving: Package them in decorative boxes or tins to share with friends and family.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for proper mixing.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be soft in the center when you take them out.
• Not Allowing to Cool: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them is essential to maintain their shape.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Avoid Humidity: Keep cookies in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming sticky.

Conclusion

The Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are a must-try holiday treat that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture. These cookies are quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Try making them today, and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more festive recipes and holiday tips.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Add festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes on top before baking for a colorful holiday touch.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.