Imagine biting into a soft, gooey cookie that bursts with the bright, sunny flavor of lemon. That’s exactly what you get with these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, a delightful treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With a simple ingredient list and a few steps, you can whip up a batch of these cookies that are sure to brighten up any day. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, a summer picnic, or just need a little pick-me-up, these cookies are the answer.
Soft, Gooey, and Irresistibly Lemon
These cookies combine the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy richness of butter and cream cheese to create a texture that’s out of this world. The lemon cake mix not only simplifies the recipe but also infuses every bite with perfect lemony sweetness. Here’s how to bring these delectable treats to your table.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies
- Creamy Base: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are well-softened before mixing to achieve that perfectly smooth and creamy base.
- Chill the Dough: The dough can be quite sticky, so chilling it makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Sugar Coating: Rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking not only adds sweetness but also creates a beautiful cracked surface as they bake.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your oven! Bake the cookies just until the edges are set. The centers should still be a bit soft when you take them out to keep them gooey.
- Cool Properly: Let the cookies set on the baking sheet for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This step helps them firm up enough to transfer to a cooling rack without breaking.
Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for chilling)
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Serving: Makes about 24 cookies
- Equipment: Mixing bowls, baking sheet, parchment paper
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 box (about 18 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Directions:
- Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add Flavors: Mix in the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Incorporate Cake Mix: Gradually add the lemon cake mix, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Form Cookies: Roll the dough into balls, coat each in powdered sugar, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until just set.
- Cool: Allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
A Sweet Addition to Any Occasion
Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a versatile treat that pairs perfectly with tea, coffee, or even a glass of lemonade. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dress them up for a party. With their bright flavor and irresistible texture, these cookies are sure to win hearts and bring smiles wherever they’re served.
