Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe: A Holiday Favorite
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When it comes to Christmas baking, few things capture the festive spirit quite like Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. These cookies are soft, sweet, and melt in your mouth with every bite. Picture a snowy afternoon, your kitchen filled with the warm aroma of butter and vanilla, and a plate of these magical cookies waiting to be devoured. They are a must-have for any holiday gathering or cozy family evening by the fire.
What makes these cookies so special? It’s the perfect balance between their rich buttery flavor and their delightfully gooey texture. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting your Christmas baking adventures, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. You do not need fancy equipment, tricky techniques, or hours of free time. All you need is a love of holiday cookies and a few pantry staples.
- A Nostalgic Dive into the History of Gooey Butter Cookies
- Ingredients Unwrapped: What Makes Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies So Special?
- Foolproof Recipe with Step-by-Step Instructions
- Tips and Tricks to Elevate Your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
- Variations: Making Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies Your Own
- Serving and Presentation Ideas: Make Your Christmas Cookies Shine
- Storage Tips: Keeping the Magic Fresh
- Sprinkle Some Holiday Joy
- Printable Recipe Card
Christmas butter cookies have a way of bringing people together. These cookies are not just a dessert, they are a memory in the making. Imagine baking them with your kids while sharing stories of holidays past. They are perfect for gifting too. Wrap them up in a festive tin, and you’ve got an easy homemade gift that is guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.
The best part about Christmas baking is the joy it brings. Whether you are making treats for a Christmas party or whipping up some fun Christmas snacks for kids, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. These gooey butter cookies are not just a treat, they are a celebration of all things Christmas. Get ready to bake something unforgettable! Let’s dive in.

A Nostalgic Dive into the History of Gooey Butter Cookies
Every great recipe has a story, and Gooey Butter Cookies are no exception. To fully appreciate these holiday favorites, we have to take a quick trip back in time to St. Louis, Missouri. That’s where it all began—with a happy baking accident that turned into one of the most beloved desserts in American history.
In the 1930s, a baker in St. Louis was working on a butter cake recipe when a mix-up with the proportions of ingredients created a dense and gooey masterpiece. This was not your average cake. Instead of being fluffy and light, it was rich, moist, and unapologetically buttery. It became an instant hit, and Gooey Butter Cake was born. St. Louis locals embraced it as a regional treasure, and it quickly earned a place in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere.
Fast forward a few decades, and this iconic cake underwent a transformation. The same gooey, buttery goodness found its way into bite-sized, handheld form: Gooey Butter Cookies. What better way to bring a slice of St. Louis magic to your Christmas baking than by turning this classic cake into a soft and chewy cookie that melts in your mouth? It’s a natural fit for the holidays, combining the rich flavors of the original cake with the portability and shareability of a cookie.
What makes Gooey Butter Cookies such a perfect Christmas treat? They feel like nostalgia wrapped up in powdered sugar. They remind us of simpler times, when desserts were homemade and family recipes were passed down like treasures. These cookies are a little piece of history, a little piece of St. Louis, and a whole lot of holiday magic.
Whether you are baking for a Christmas cookie exchange, looking for unique Christmas cookies to add to your holiday spread, or just enjoying the tradition of holiday baking, Gooey Butter Cookies bring a sense of warmth and connection. They carry with them a story that you can share, just like the cookies themselves. So as you bake these delicious cookies, you are not just making a dessert—you are making a memory that stretches all the way back to a small bakery in Missouri.
And isn’t that what Christmas baking is all about? Sharing flavors, stories, and joy with the ones you love. These cookies may have started as a happy accident, but they’ve become a holiday tradition worth savoring.

Ingredients Unwrapped: What Makes Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies So Special?
Every ingredient in Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies plays a vital role in creating the rich flavor and soft, gooey texture that makes these cookies so irresistible. Let’s break it down ingredient by ingredient so you can understand why each one is essential to this holiday favorite. And for those who love adding a little extra magic to their baking, we’ve included some optional correspondences to make this recipe even more enchanting.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup / 113g)
Butter is the heart and soul of these cookies, giving them their rich, creamy flavor. Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the recipe.
Magical Correspondence: Butter symbolizes nurturing and transformation, perfect for infusing your cookies with love and warmth. - Cream Cheese (8 oz / 226g)
This is the secret to the cookies’ ooey-gooey center. It adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Magical Correspondence: Cream cheese represents comfort and adaptability, blending different energies into a harmonious whole. - Granulated Sugar (1½ cups / 300g)
The sugar provides the sweetness that defines these cookies. It also helps with the golden-brown finish during baking.
Magical Correspondence: Sugar is often associated with sweetness in life, love, and joy. Adding sugar to your recipe invites these energies into your home. - Large Egg (1, at room temperature)
The egg binds everything together, adding structure to the cookies while keeping them soft.
Magical Correspondence: Eggs are symbols of creation and new beginnings, making them a powerful addition to holiday baking. - Pure Vanilla Extract (1½ tablespoons)
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cookies with its warm, comforting aroma.
Magical Correspondence: Vanilla is tied to love, passion, and peace, bringing a soothing energy to your kitchen. - All-Purpose Flour (2¼ cups / 281g)
Flour provides the structure that gives the cookies their shape. It balances the wet ingredients, keeping the cookies from spreading too much.
Magical Correspondence: Flour represents stability and grounding, essential qualities for bringing balance to any recipe. - Baking Powder (2 teaspoons)
This leavening agent gives the cookies a slight lift, keeping them soft and fluffy instead of dense.
Magical Correspondence: Baking powder symbolizes growth and expansion, a fitting energy for the holiday season. - Salt (1 teaspoon)
Just a pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, making the cookies taste more balanced.
Magical Correspondence: Salt is a purifier and protector, believed to cleanse negative energies and enhance the positive ones. - Powdered Sugar (½ cup / 60g, for rolling)
Rolling the cookie dough in powdered sugar creates the signature sweet crust and gives them their festive, snowy appearance.
Magical Correspondence: Powdered sugar refines sweetness, adding a layer of delicacy and attraction. - Festive Holiday Sprinkles (¼ cup, optional)
Add these for a pop of color and extra holiday cheer.
Magical Correspondence: Sprinkles represent celebration and joy, bringing a sense of fun and variety to your cookies.
Table of Ingredients and Their Roles
| Ingredient | Role in Recipe | Optional Magical Correspondence |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | Adds rich, creamy flavor | Nurturing and transformation |
| Cream Cheese | Creates the gooey texture | Comfort and adaptability |
| Granulated Sugar | Sweetens the cookies | Love, joy, and sweetness in life |
| Large Egg | Binds ingredients and adds structure | Creation and new beginnings |
| Pure Vanilla Extract | Enhances flavor | Love, passion, and peace |
| All-Purpose Flour | Provides structure | Stability and grounding |
| Baking Powder | Gives cookies a slight lift | Growth and expansion |
| Salt | Balances flavors | Cleansing and protection |
| Powdered Sugar | Creates a sweet crust | Refines sweetness and attracts positivity |
| Festive Holiday Sprinkles | Adds color and cheer (optional) | Celebration and joy |
Now that you know how each ingredient works its magic, you’re ready to start baking these incredible cookies. Whether you are a practical baker or someone who loves a touch of mystical charm, this recipe has everything you need for a delicious and meaningful baking experience. Let’s turn these simple ingredients into holiday magic!

Foolproof Recipe with Step-by-Step Instructions
It’s time to bring these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies to life! Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly gooey, buttery, and festive every single time. Don’t worry if you’re new to baking—this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, with tips along the way to help you avoid common mistakes. Ready? Let’s bake!
Ingredients (for reference while baking)
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1½ tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups (281g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
- ¼ cup festive holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Side Tip: Make sure both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the smoothest mix. - Gradually add the granulated sugar to the mixture, beating until light and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies stay soft and gooey.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Side Note: If you’re adding sprinkles, fold them gently into the dough at this stage for a festive touch!
Chill the Dough
6. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.
Pro Tip: For even better results, chill the dough for up to an hour.
Preheat and Prepare
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Shape and Coat
9. Scoop the dough into 1½-tablespoon-sized portions and roll each portion into a ball using your hands.
Helpful Hint: Use a cookie scoop to get evenly sized cookies.
10. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
Bake the Cookies
11. Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers should still look slightly underbaked—this is what makes them gooey!
Baking Note: Avoid overbaking! The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Cool and Enjoy
13. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar for an extra snowy look.
14. Serve and enjoy your Christmas butter cookies with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee!
Troubleshooting Sidebar: Why Are My Cookies Spreading Too Much?
- Your butter was too warm: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened, not melted.
- The dough wasn’t chilled enough: Chilling the dough helps it hold its shape during baking.
- Too much sugar coating: While powdered sugar is delicious, too thick of a coating can lead to spreading. Dust off any excess before baking.
- Overmixing the dough: Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the flour, which can affect the texture.
Now you’re ready to create the perfect batch of Gooey Butter Cookies that look festive and taste heavenly. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or wrapping them up for Christmas snacks, these cookies are sure to impress. Grab your favorite holiday playlist, and let’s get baking!
Tips and Tricks to Elevate Your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
Baking these cookies is already a treat, but there’s always room to add your personal flair. Whether you’re looking to boost the flavors, create a show-stopping holiday display, or make these cookies perfect for gifting, these tips and tricks will take your Gooey Butter Cookies to the next level. Let’s add some magic to your holiday baking!
Creative Add-Ins for Flavor
Sometimes, a small tweak can make a big difference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of these add-ins to customize your cookies and make them uniquely yours:
- Peppermint Extract: Replace half the vanilla with peppermint extract to add a cool, festive twist. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a little extra holiday cheer.
- Lemon Zest: For a bright, tangy flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough. Perfect for those who prefer something less sweet but still indulgent.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Mix in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a gooey chocolate kick. White chocolate chips also pair wonderfully with the cream cheese base.
- Festive Sprinkles: Stir in some red, green, and gold sprinkles to the dough for a playful and colorful touch. This is a great way to make the cookies extra appealing to kids.
- Chopped Nuts: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch that complements the gooey texture.
Pro Tip: Try combining flavors for something totally unique, like white chocolate chips with crushed candy canes for a winter wonderland vibe!

Decorating for Holiday Gifting
Gifting homemade cookies is one of the sweetest ways to spread holiday cheer. Here are some ideas to present your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies in style:
- Festive Cookie Tins: Line a decorative holiday tin with parchment paper, stack your cookies neatly, and add a small sachet of powdered sugar for touch-ups. Tie the tin with a ribbon for an elegant finish.
- Cellophane Bags: Place a few cookies in clear holiday-themed bags, tie them off with a colorful ribbon, and attach a handwritten tag with the recipe or a holiday message.
- Mason Jars: Fill a mason jar with cookies, seal it with a festive lid, and decorate the jar with stickers or twine. This is a perfect rustic-style gift for friends and neighbors.
- Custom Labels: Print out personalized labels with the name of the cookies and the year. It adds a thoughtful touch that makes your gift feel extra special.
- Cookie Towers: Stack cookies into small towers, wrap them in parchment paper, and secure them with holiday twine. It’s simple but looks professional.
Helpful Hint: Adding a holiday card or a mini ornament to your gift packaging makes it even more memorable.
Expert Tips for Extra Special Cookies
- Keep it Gooey: The secret to perfect Gooey Butter Cookies is not overbaking them. Pull them out when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone.
- Make-Ahead Dough: You can prepare the dough a day or two in advance and keep it chilled. This saves time and lets you bake fresh cookies on demand.
- Flavor Infusion: Try browning the butter before mixing it into the dough for a deeper, nutty flavor. Just be sure to let it cool to room temperature before using.
- Cookie Cutter Fun: While traditionally round, you can flatten the dough slightly and use cookie cutters to create fun shapes before rolling in powdered sugar.
These tips will help you transform an already delicious recipe into a standout holiday tradition. Whether you’re baking for your family, a holiday party, or thoughtful gifts, these little extras will make your cookies unforgettable. Get creative, and let your festive spirit shine through!

Variations: Making Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies Your Own
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply want to try something different, there are plenty of ways to adapt these Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies to suit any occasion or taste. Here are some creative and practical variations to make them truly your own.
Gluten-Free Options
Going gluten-free doesn’t mean missing out on these holiday favorites. With just a few tweaks, you can enjoy the same gooey, buttery goodness:
- Swap the Flour: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Many of these blends include xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of regular flour.
- Additional Tips: Chill the dough for an extra 10-15 minutes, as gluten-free dough can be slightly stickier and harder to handle.
Helpful Hint: Double-check that your powdered sugar and baking powder are gluten-free, as some brands may contain trace amounts of gluten.
Dairy-Free Variations
For those avoiding dairy, you can still create cookies with that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture:
- Butter Replacement: Use plant-based butter or margarine. Opt for brands specifically designed for baking to ensure the right consistency.
- Cream Cheese Alternative: Swap out cream cheese for a dairy-free version made from cashews, coconut, or tofu. There are plenty of great store-bought options that mimic the tangy flavor and creamy texture of traditional cream cheese.
- Adjustments: Plant-based butter and cream cheese may be softer, so chilling the dough is especially important to prevent spreading.
Flavor Tweaks and Add-Ins
Sometimes, a little tweak can create a whole new cookie experience. These flavor ideas let you experiment and have fun:
- Lemon Zest for a Summer Vibe: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright and tangy flavor. Perfect for a fresh twist that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese.
- Almond Extract Elegance: Replace half the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty, sophisticated flavor.
- Spiced Cookies for Winter: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, holiday-inspired variation.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Mix ½ cup of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolate version of Gooey Butter Cookies. Top with chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Want to make these cookies extra fun for the little ones? These playful ideas will keep kids excited about baking and eating:
- Rainbow Cookies: Stir colorful rainbow sprinkles into the dough. They’re perfect for birthdays or just a cheerful treat during the holidays.
- Cookie Sandwiches: Bake smaller cookies and sandwich them together with a layer of frosting in the middle for a fun, handheld dessert.
Table of Variations
| Variation | What to Replace | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | All-purpose flour → gluten-free blend | Chill dough longer to improve handling |
| Dairy-Free | Butter → plant-based butter | Use dairy-free cream cheese for the gooey texture |
| Lemon Zest | Add 1 tsp lemon zest | Great for a fresh, summery flavor |
| Almond Extract | Replace ½ vanilla with almond extract | Adds a nutty and refined taste |
| Spiced Cookies | Add 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg | Perfect for warm, holiday flavors |
| Chocolate Version | Add ½ cup cocoa powder to dry ingredients | Top with chocolate chips for extra indulgence |
Empower Your Creativity
Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and textures! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. You can tailor these cookies to match any event, taste, or dietary preference. With these variations, your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies will be as unique and special as the holiday season itself. Have fun, and let your creativity shine!

Serving and Presentation Ideas: Make Your Christmas Cookies Shine
Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are as delightful to present as they are to eat. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or wrapping them up as gifts, the right presentation can turn these sweet treats into something truly special. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity and make your cookies the star of the season.
Perfect Pairings for Festive Flavor
These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a holiday beverage takes the experience to the next level. Here are a few suggestions to wow your guests:
- Spiced Hot Cocoa: Serve your cookies alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The gooey sweetness of the cookies pairs perfectly with the rich, velvety cocoa.
- Mulled Wine: For an adult-friendly option, pair the cookies with a warm glass of mulled wine infused with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. The spices complement the buttery richness of the cookies beautifully. For a non-alcoholic version, try the Apple Pie Mocktail recipe!
- Holiday Coffee Bar: Set up a coffee station with flavored syrups like peppermint, caramel, and hazelnut. Offer your cookies as the perfect accompaniment for guests to enjoy while customizing their coffee.
- Kid-Friendly Milk Pairing: Add a splash of festive fun by serving the cookies with glasses of milk dyed red or green with food coloring.
Styling Tips for Holiday Platters
A little effort in styling can make your cookie platter the centerpiece of any dessert table. Here are some simple but stunning ideas:
- Layered Holiday Colors: Arrange your cookies on a large platter lined with alternating red and green parchment paper. Sprinkle some powdered sugar over the cookies for a snowy effect.
- Edible Accents: Decorate the platter with small edible items like candy canes, peppermint sticks, or sprigs of fresh rosemary and cranberries to add pops of holiday color.
- Three-Tier Display: Use a tiered stand to showcase your cookies at different heights. This not only saves space but also adds a professional touch to your presentation.
- Rustic Charm: Serve the cookies on a wooden cutting board lined with brown parchment paper for a cozy, rustic look. Pair with a few pinecones or a small string of fairy lights for extra charm.
Wrapping Ideas for Holiday Gifts
Gifting your Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies? Wrap them up in style to make your treats look as good as they taste:
- Festive Cookie Tins: Line a holiday-themed tin with parchment paper, layer the cookies carefully, and seal it with a cheerful bow. This classic presentation never fails.
- Mason Jar Magic: Stack cookies in a mason jar, secure the lid, and tie a piece of twine or ribbon around the top. Add a handwritten label or holiday tag for a personal touch.
- DIY Cookie Boxes: Use small gift boxes lined with tissue paper. Decorate the outside with stickers, stamps, or ribbon to match your holiday theme.
- Cellophane Wraps: Wrap a few cookies in clear holiday-themed cellophane and tie them with a ribbon. Perfect for smaller gifts or party favors.
- Holiday Treat Bags: Pack the cookies in colorful treat bags, tie with a ribbon, and include a recipe card for an extra thoughtful touch.
Instagram-Worthy Details
Want to create a picture-perfect display? These small but impactful details will elevate your cookies into social media stars:
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar just before serving for a snowy, photogenic effect.
- Festive Plates and Props: Use holiday-themed plates, napkins, or small props like miniature ornaments to enhance the festive mood.
- Lighting and Angles: If you’re snapping a photo, use natural light and angle your platter to highlight the cookies’ gooey texture and snowy powdered sugar coating.
Table of Pairing and Presentation Ideas
| Idea | Details |
|---|---|
| Spiced Hot Cocoa | Rich cocoa with whipped cream and cinnamon, paired with gooey cookies |
| Mulled Wine | Warm wine with holiday spices, a perfect adult-friendly match for buttery cookies |
| Layered Holiday Platters | Cookies arranged with red and green parchment for a festive pop of color |
| Edible Accents | Candy canes, cranberries, or fresh rosemary as garnish |
| Mason Jar Packaging | Stack cookies in a jar with a festive ribbon and handwritten tag |
| DIY Cookie Boxes | Small gift boxes lined with tissue paper, decorated with stamps or ribbon |
| Instagram-Worthy Sugar Dust | Lightly powdered cookies arranged on holiday-themed plates for a snowy, festive look |
Let the Cookies Sparkle
Whether you’re hosting a party, gifting cookies to loved ones, or simply indulging in a cozy moment at home, a little creativity in serving and presentation can make these cookies feel even more special. So go ahead, let your Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies shine and spread the holiday joy!

Storage Tips: Keeping the Magic Fresh
Baking Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies is a joy, but knowing how to store them properly is just as important. Whether you’re preparing in advance for a holiday gathering or saving leftovers (if there are any!), these tips will ensure your cookies stay soft, fresh, and delicious. We’ll also cover how to freeze the dough so you can bake fresh cookies on demand, keeping the holiday magic alive whenever you need it.
Storing Baked Cookies
Once your cookies are baked to gooey perfection, proper storage will help maintain their texture and flavor:
- Use an Airtight Container: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. This keeps them soft and gooey for up to three days at room temperature.
- Layer with Parchment Paper: If you’re stacking cookies, place a sheet of parchment or wax paper between each layer. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps the powdered sugar coating intact.
- Avoid Humidity: Keep the container in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight. Excess humidity can make the cookies sticky.
- Refrigeration Option: If you want to keep them longer, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving to restore their gooey texture.
Pro Tip: Reheat the cookies in the microwave for 5-7 seconds to bring back their fresh-out-of-the-oven softness.
Freezing Baked Cookies
If you want to bake in advance and freeze the cookies for later, follow these steps:
- Cool Completely: Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before freezing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Wrap Individually: Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap to protect them from freezer burn.
- Store in a Freezer Bag or Container: Place the wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Label with the date so you know when you made them.
- Freeze for Up to 3 Months: These cookies freeze beautifully and can be enjoyed long after the holidays.
Reheating Tip: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature and reheat in a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes to refresh their texture.
Freezing Cookie Dough
Want to prepare ahead and bake fresh cookies when needed? Freezing the dough is the perfect solution. Here’s how:
- Chill the Dough First: Once you’ve made the dough, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into balls as if you were about to bake them. Coat them in powdered sugar, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze Individually: Place the baking sheet in the freezer and let the dough balls freeze solid (about 1-2 hours).
- Store in a Freezer Bag: Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible and label the bag with the date.
Baking Frozen Dough: When ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls directly on a prepared baking sheet. Bake as instructed, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Table of Storage Solutions
| Storage Method | Steps | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Store in airtight container, layer with parchment paper | Up to 3 days |
| Refrigerator | Use airtight container, bring to room temp before serving | Up to 1 week |
| Freezing Baked Cookies | Wrap individually, store in freezer bag or container | Up to 3 months |
| Freezing Cookie Dough | Freeze dough balls individually, store in freezer bag | Up to 3 months |
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness
- Powdered Sugar Refresh: After storing or freezing, you may want to dust the cookies with a fresh coat of powdered sugar to restore their festive look.
- Holiday Gifting Tip: If giving the cookies as a gift, consider including a small note with storage and reheating instructions so your recipient can enjoy them at their best.
With these storage tips, you can bake these Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies ahead of time and keep them fresh and fabulous for the holiday season. Whether you’re saving some for a cozy family night or preparing for last-minute visitors, these cookies will always be ready to spread the magic.

Sprinkle Some Holiday Joy
Baking is more than just mixing ingredients and following a recipe—it’s about creating moments of joy and connection, especially during the holidays. These Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are not just a treat; they are a little piece of comfort and nostalgia wrapped in powdered sugar. Every batch brings with it the warmth of tradition, the excitement of sharing, and the magic of the season.
The holidays are a time for slowing down and appreciating the little things, and there’s something so special about the simple act of baking. Whether it’s the smell of vanilla and butter filling your kitchen, the laughter of kids sneaking cookie dough, or the joy of giving a homemade gift, these cookies are a reminder of how sweet life can be.
As you bake and enjoy these cookies, take a moment to soak in the spirit of the season. Maybe it’s the glow of twinkling lights, the sound of your favorite holiday playlist, or the smiles on the faces of those you share them with. These are the memories that make this time of year so magical.
We’d love to hear from you! Did you try adding a special twist to the recipe? Are your cookies starring in a holiday platter or wrapped up for gifting? Share your photos, tips, or holiday cookie adventures in the comments below. Let’s keep the holiday cheer going by celebrating the joy of baking together.
From our kitchen to yours, happy holidays and happy baking! May your Christmas be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of gooey, buttery cookies.
Try my other Yule cookie recipes:
Printable Recipe Card
Here’s a compact, print-friendly version of the recipe for Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies. Perfect for sticking on the fridge, sharing with friends, or saving for your next baking day! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and spread the holiday cheer.

Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe
Indulge in the festive delight of Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies—a harmonious blend of rich cream cheese, buttery goodness, and a hint of vanilla, all enveloped in a delicate powdered sugar crust. This from-scratch recipe captures the essence of the classic St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake in a melt-in-your-mouth cookie form, making it a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1½ tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups (281g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, for rolling
- ¼ cup festive holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in sprinkles if desired.
Chill Dough:
- Cover dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape Cookies:
- Scoop 1½-tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat with powdered sugar.
Bake:
- Place dough balls on baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set and centers appear slightly underdone.
Cool:
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth dough.
- Dust cooled cookies with extra powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
Print this out, pin it to your holiday board, or share it with loved ones who would enjoy baking these festive delights. Happy baking, and may your cookies bring joy to everyone who tastes them! 🎄🍪

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Dark Goddess Mulled Wine: Samhain Libation Ritual
When the autumn season arrives, many people look for meaningful ways to connect with family…
Banishing Soup Recipe: Mars Herbs Clear Stubborn Negativity
Banishing soup transforms Mars herbs into powerful protection magic when negative energy refuses to budge…
Protective Oil Recipe: Mars Energy for Kitchen Witches
Making protective oil with Mars energy transforms ordinary cooking into powerful magical practice. This Mars-infused…






