Introduction

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that is both delicious and simple to make, then Gooey Butter Cookies are a must-try. These cookies boast a rich texture and a unique flavor that sets them apart from traditional cookies. Originating from St. Louis, Gooey Butter Cookies have gained popularity for their irresistible gooey center and buttery finish. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a dessert to indulge in, or just wanting a unique treat to surprise your family, these cookies will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to make a batch of Gooey Butter Cookies that are sure to impress!

Ingredients List

To make your Gooey Butter Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
– Pinch of salt

These ingredients come together beautifully, producing cookies that are both chewy and delectable.

Timing

The total time to prepare and bake your Gooey Butter Cookies is approximately 45 minutes:

– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Baking time: 10-12 minutes
– Cooling time: 5 minutes (before dusting with powdered sugar)

This time is well spent when you consider the delightful cookie experience you’re about to create.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your Gooey Butter Cookies is a straightforward process that yields impressive results.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, beating until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until fully combined.
5. The dough will be sticky; you may want to chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to make the next steps easier.
6. Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. The consistency should be soft yet manageable.
7. Roll each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring an even coating.
8. Place the rolled balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden, but the centers remain soft and gooey.
10. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

Following these step-by-step instructions ensures that your Gooey Butter Cookies turn out perfect every time. The gooey center will be an absolute crowd-pleaser!

Nutritional Information

It’s always a good idea to be aware of the nutritional facts when baking treats. Here’s the approximate nutritional information per cookie (assuming the recipe yields around 24 cookies):

– Calories: 130
– Total Fat: 6g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 18mg
– Sodium: 50mg
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Dietary Fiber: 0g
– Sugars: 8g
– Protein: 1g

Keep these numbers in mind while enjoying these scrumptious treats, and don’t hesitate to share them with family and friends for a delightful experience together!

Tips

To elevate your Gooey Butter Cookies further and ensure they come out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

– Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier blending.
– If you find the dough too sticky to handle, don’t hesitate to chill it longer in the refrigerator.
– Experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.
– Avoid overbaking; the goal is to keep the centers soft and gooey for that signature texture.

These simple tips will help you create irresistible Gooey Butter Cookies that everyone will be raving about!

Alternative Methods

If you want to mix things up with your baking or cater to dietary restrictions, here are a few alternative methods to consider:

– For a gluten-free option, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free variant.
– Incorporating flavored extracts, such as almond or coconut, can add a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.
– Instead of rolling in powdered sugar, dip the cookies in a glaze of your choice for a unique presentation and taste.

These alternatives will not only bring creativity to your baking but also allow for customization based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While baking cookies can seem straightforward, here are some common mistakes that might affect the quality of your Gooey Butter Cookies:

– Skipping the chilling step: This can lead to excessively sticky dough that’s challenging to handle.
– Overmixing the dough after adding the cake mix may result in tough cookies.
– Baking too long: To achieve that gooey texture, it’s vital to remove them from the oven while they still look slightly under-baked.
– Ignoring your oven’s temperature; be sure to preheat properly and check your oven’s calibration to ensure accurate baking conditions.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll significantly improve your chances of baking stunning Gooey Butter Cookies that are perfect every time!

Conclusion

In summary, Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that anyone can make at home with relative ease. With the proper ingredients and adherence to the outlined instructions, you’ll create soft and gooey cookies that embody comfort and delight. They’re perfect for gatherings or a simple indulgence snack! So why wait? Get baking, and enjoy these scrumptious Gooey Butter Cookies soon! Don’t forget to check back to my website for more exciting recipes that will inspire your culinary adventures.

FAQs

Can I freeze Gooey Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months.

What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
While yellow cake mix is traditional for this recipe, you can use a similar flavor of cake mix, or make a homemade mix using flour, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for optimal taste.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for slightly golden edges while the center still looks soft and puffy. The cookies will continue to set as they cool, which helps achieve that signature gooey texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store your Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Enjoy the baking journey and the delightful outcome of your Gooey Butter Cookies!