Gooey Butter Cake Cookies (Printable Version)

Effortless cookies with yellow cake mix and cream cheese creating that perfect soft center with slightly crisp edges in every bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 1 package yellow cake mix
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract

→ Coating

06 - Powdered sugar, for rolling
07 - Festive sprinkles (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, vanilla extract, egg, and softened cream cheese until fluffy and well combined, using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
02 - Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients. Blend until everything is well mixed and forms a smooth, consistent dough. Continue mixing until all dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
03 - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator. Allow the dough to chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour until firm enough to handle.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll into 1-inch diameter balls. If using sprinkles, roll each ball in them first. Then coat generously with powdered sugar, rolling twice to ensure complete coverage.
05 - Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly browned but centers still appear slightly underbaked.
06 - Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

# Notes:

01 - The cookies are done when edges are set but centers still look slightly underbaked - they'll continue to set while cooling.
02 - For best results, ensure butter and cream cheese are properly softened to room temperature.
03 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
04 - The dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake.
05 - These cookies freeze well for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container with wax paper between layers.

Go Back