Welcome to the delightful world of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, where every bite is a celebration of flavors and memories. These cookies are my go-to during the holiday season, evoking memories of baking with my family, as we filled the kitchen with laughter and joy. If you’re looking to spread some cheer this holiday season, let these cookies be the star of your treats platter! With its creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, these cookies are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just to indulge yourself. Get ready to bake up some holiday magic!
Table of Contents
A Sweet Holiday History: The Origin of Butter Cookies
The tradition of butter cookies dates back centuries and has woven itself into the fabric of holiday celebrations around the world. Although it is difficult to pinpoint their exact origin, butter cookies likely took form in Europe, where the richness of butter combined with simple ingredients created a beloved treat that became synonymous with festive occasions.
Food historians believe that moving ingredients such as butter, sugar, and eggs, together made it possible to bake delightful cookies, paving the way for variations across cultures. In America, butter cookies became especially popular as families looked for recipes that were easy to make and perfect for sharing.
As the holiday season approaches, these cookies often get a festive twist, with unique flavors and colorful decorations. One popular American holiday adaptation is the Ooey Gooey Butter Cookie, a delightful concoction that features cream cheese, leading to a rich, indulgent flavor with a chewy texture. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa, this cookie embodies the spirit of sharing and joy that fills our homes during Christmas.
It’s fascinating to see how the art of making butter cookies has evolved, yet the heartwarming essence remains untouched. Whether displayed on a cookie platter or gifted to friends and family, these treats have a way of bringing everyone together, reminding us of the importance of love, warmth, and togetherness during the holiday season. Prepare to embrace this tradition by making your own batch of these holiday treats!
For further insights into cookie recipes, you might want to explore the delightful gingerbread lasagna.
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Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
Delightful holiday cookies with a creamy texture and sweet flavor, perfect for gatherings and festive occasions.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup Butter (softened)
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Almond Extract
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- Colored Sprinkles (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and mix well.
- Beat in eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Fold in colored sprinkles.
- Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For a peppermint twist, substitute some vanilla extract with peppermint extract or add chocolate chips for an extra treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Why Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies Will Become Your New Favorite
If you’re wondering why this recipe stands out among the countless holiday cookie options, let me share my insights! These cookies embody a balance of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. The creamy cream cheese combined with the buttery richness creates a moist texture that melts in your mouth, while the powdered sugar adds a delightful sweetness that is not too overwhelming.
Perfect for Holiday Gatherings
Another reason these cookies are a must-bake during Christmas is their beautiful appeal. With colored sprinkles adorning the top, these cookies are a feast for the eyes as well. The soft, gooey center contrasts beautifully with the light crunch of the edges.
Easy and Fun to Make
Baking should be an enjoyable experience, especially during the holidays. This recipe is straightforward and involves simple steps that even novice bakers can follow. You will find yourself grinning with delight as the sweet aroma fills your kitchen, restoring the festive spirit of the season.
Customizable for Any Occasion
Additionally, the flexibility of this recipe means you can customize it to fit your unique tastes. Whether you want to incorporate peppermint for a refreshing holiday touch or swap in a different extract, the options are limitless. You’ll end up with a variety of delicious cookies that can cater to everyone’s preferences while still keeping that ooey gooey essence intact.
As you indulge in the process, you’ll appreciate not just the taste but the warm memories that come with holiday baking. The joy of sharing these cookies with loved ones is what makes them all the more special. Before you know it, you’ll be enticed to bake a second batch! For additional inspiration, check out this chocolate chip cookies recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions + Baking Tips
Baking Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies is a delightful journey. Follow along as I guide you through each step of the process, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly delicious!
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, make sure you have all your ingredients ready:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Cream Cheese | 8 ounces (softened) |
| Powdered Sugar | 3 cups |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Almond Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Colored Sprinkles | To taste |
Mix and Bake
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to start with a hot oven to get those cookies baking perfectly!
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. The right texture is key here!
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well until it’s beautifully combined.
4. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mixing these flavors together takes your cookies to the next level!
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps incorporate the dry ingredients evenly.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring continuously until combined. This is where the magic happens!
7. Finally, fold in the colorful sprinkles to get your festive spirit on display.
8. Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them out to allow for spreading.
9. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will be filled with the smell of sweet goodness at this point!
10. Allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. This is the hardest part, waiting to taste!
Remember, a small tip for checking doneness is to watch the edges closely, they should be just turning golden. For more cookie-making tips, you can check out this informative piece on baking cookies.
Variations and Serving Ideas
One of the beautiful things about baking is the ability to customize and personalize your creations. When it comes to Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, the adaptations are plentiful!
Flavor Variations
For a peppermint twist, simply substitute some of the vanilla extract with peppermint extract, which will give you those delightful holiday vibes in each bite. Think chocolate chips could make these cookies even more decadent? Go ahead and add them in for a sweet chocolate surprise!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your cookies, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top right before serving for an elegant touch. Pair the cookies with hot cocoa or a creamy eggnog for a festive treat that completes the holiday flavor experience!
Gift-Giving
These cookies are perfect for gifting! Consider packaging them in a cookie tin, tied with a festive ribbon, for a delightful present that friends and family will appreciate. Let your creativity shine by adding a personal tag with a sweet message. Encourage others to share in the holiday baking spirit by creating a cookie exchange!
Final Thoughts
Baking Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies has become one of my cherished holiday traditions. With their delightful texture and sweet, creamy flavor, these cookies are a surefire way to spread joy during this special season. They have the power to evoke fond memories, delicious moments, and the warmth of family gatherings, bringing us all together around the festive table.
So, put on your apron, grab your mixing bowl, and let this recipe inspire your holiday baking list! Don’t forget to share your baked creations and tag your friends so they can join you in this delicious adventure. A perfect cookie can make even the busiest of days feel extra special! For more festive recipes, check out this incredible pumpkin chocolate chip cookies recipe.
And as they say, “Baking is love made visible”, so let the world see your love this holiday season. Wishing you a joy-filled baking experience! Follow me on Pinterest for more delicious inspirations and holiday ideas!
FAQ
Can different extracts be used for these cookies?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts such as peppermint, coconut, or lemon for unique flavor profiles. Each option will lend a different twist to your cookies, making them even more festive!
Can I store these cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
If you find yourself without cream cheese, you can substitute half of the amount with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar texture. However, note that this will alter the flavor slightly.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum to help the cookies hold their shape.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Certainly! You can make the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and bake as directed!
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