Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Station
Before you start baking, ensure your kitchen is ready for the magic! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier. Gather all your ingredients and tools, so you can bake efficiently.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This process helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt, ensuring your cookies rise perfectly and have a consistent flavor. Set this bowl aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to create a light, fluffy base for your cookies.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter-cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat on medium speed until fully combined. Next, add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. This will give your cookies a lovely, rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the gooey texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Gradually add the flour mixture to the batter, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the dough can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 6: Fold in the Sprinkles
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the festive sprinkles. This step adds a fun pop of color and holiday cheer to your cookies! You can use as many or as few sprinkles as you like, depending on how festive you want your cookies to be.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Remember that these cookies will spread a little while baking, so give them some room!
Step 8: Roll in Powdered Sugar
In a shallow bowl, add 1 cup of powdered sugar. Roll each dough ball in the sugar to coat it completely before placing it back on the baking sheet. This coating creates a beautiful, sweet crust that contrasts wonderfully with the gooey center.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will remain soft and slightly underbaked, which is what gives them that signature ooey-gooey texture.
Step 10: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. While they’re still warm, you can roll them again in powdered sugar and sprinkle a few more festive sprinkles on top for an extra touch.
Step 11: Enjoy and Share
Now that your cookies are cool, it’s time to indulge! Serve them on a festive platter at holiday gatherings, gift them in decorative tins, or keep a stash for yourself. Their soft, gooey center and rich flavor are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Storage Tips:
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them extra fresh, you can also freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can be stored for up to three months.
Conclusion:
Christmas Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies are the ultimate festive treat, combining rich flavors and a delightful gooey texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party or simply for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your home. Follow this detailed recipe, and you’ll create a batch of cookies that not only taste divine but also fill your kitchen with the spirit of the season. Happy baking!