Prep Time: ~10–15 minutes | Chill Time: ~30 minutes | Cook Time: ~10–12 minutes | Total Time: ~50–55 minutes | Yield: ~24 cookies
Introduction
These Gooey Butter Cookies are soft, buttery, and irresistibly gooey inside with a sweet powdered sugar exterior. Made with yellow cake mix, cream cheese, and butter, they bring the flavor of classic gooey butter cake into a handheld cookie form — perfect for holidays, bake sales, or everyday dessert cravings.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Super soft, tender, and slightly gooey center
- Simple ingredients you probably already have
- Easy to make and fun to share
- Great for holidays or anytime you want a sweet treat
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for rolling)
The Flavor Profile
These cookies feature a rich and buttery cake-like texture with a soft, slightly gooey interior thanks to the cream cheese and cake mix base. Rolling in powdered sugar gives them a sweet, crackled finish that’s perfect with a glass of milk or cup of coffee.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Dough
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
2. Add Cake Mix
Stir in the yellow cake mix until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Chill (Optional)
Cover and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to roll, but you can skip this if you’re short on time.
4. Shape & Coat
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Scoop dough into balls (about 1–1½″ each), then roll each ball in powdered sugar until well coated.
5. Bake
Place the coated dough balls on a prepared baking sheet about 2″ apart. Bake 10–12 minutes — the cookies should be set around the edges but still soft in the center.
6. Cool
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Best Results
- Chill the dough so it’s easier to form into balls.
- Don’t overbake — these cookies should stay soft and slightly gooey.
- Roll generously in powdered sugar for a classic crackled look.
How to Serve
Serve these cookies on a dessert platter with milk, coffee, or tea. They’re great for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet finish to any meal.
Storage & Freshness
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. They can also be frozen — just thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Quick Gooey Butter Cookies with Yellow Cake are rich, soft, and delightfully sweet — a simple but indulgent cookie that’s perfect for any occasion!
