Name: Gooey Eggnog Butter Cookies for the Ultimate Holiday Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1 cup Butter (unsalted, softened); 1 large Large Egg (at room temperature); 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg (freshly grated); 1 tsp Rum Extract (substitute with vanilla if unavailable); 1 pkg Pillsbury Golden Butter Cake Mix (or any yellow cake mix); 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for rolling and decoration)

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As the holiday season nears, the air fills with the scent of spices and sweet treats; it’s a delightful reminder of warm gatherings and cozy moments. My Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies embody all that magic with their rich, buttery flavor combined with the nostalgia of classic holiday eggnog. These cookies are a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for both busy bakers and those new to the kitchen. Plus, their gooey texture is simply irresistible—a crowd-pleaser for cookie exchanges and family celebrations alike! As you prepare to fill your home with warmth and cheer, are you ready to create a batch of these dreamy cookies that capture the essence of Christmas?

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Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Gooey Texture: These Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies are delightfully chewy, with a soft center that melts in your mouth, making each bite an indulgent experience.

Festive Flavor: Infused with rich eggnog, ground nutmeg, and a hint of rum, they encapsulate the essence of the holiday season in every delicious bite.

Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and commonly available ingredients, they are perfect for novice bakers or busy holiday hosts.

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for gifting or bringing to festive gatherings, ensuring your friends and family will rave about them.

Versatility Options: Feel free to switch up the flavors with cinnamon or even chocolate chips to create variations that everyone will love—just like in our Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups or our Lemon Sugar Cookies.

Get ready for a cookie experience that makes your holidays even more special!

Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Cream Cheese – Provides richness and creaminess to the dough. Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Butter – Adds flavor and tenderness to the cookies. Use unsalted, softened butter for best results.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and contributes moisture. Use at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Ground Nutmeg – Offers a warm, seasonal flavor reminiscent of holiday eggnog. Freshly grated nutmeg enhances aroma.
• Rum Extract – Imparts a subtle rum flavor without the alcohol. Substitute with vanilla extract if unavailable.
• Pillsbury Golden Butter Cake Mix – Forms the base of the cookie dough, providing sweetness and texture. Any yellow cake mix can be used as an alternative.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise and gives them a fluffy texture.
• Powdered Sugar – For rolling the cookies which adds sweetness and a beautiful finish. Extra can be sprinkled on top for decoration.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking. You’ll know it’s ready when the oven reaches the desired temperature and a slight waft of heat escapes.

Step 2: Cream the Mix
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The texture should be light and fluffy, setting a perfect base for your Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Spices
Next, add one large egg and ground nutmeg into the creamed mixture. Beat them together until fully combined, ensuring the egg is evenly mixed in. The rich eggnog aroma will start to fill the air, hinting at the festive treat ahead. Mix for another minute until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Add Extract and Dry Ingredients
Stir in the rum extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually pour in the Pillsbury Golden Butter Cake Mix and the baking powder. Mix together on low speed or with a spatula until you achieve a thick, cohesive dough. The dough will be sticky but should come together beautifully, capturing the essence of Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This refrigeration step is important; it makes the dough easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking. You can prepare your baking sheet in the meantime to save some time.

Step 6: Form the Cookie Balls
Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Scoop out portions and roll them into 2-inch balls. To add sweetness and a festive touch, generously coat each ball with powdered sugar, ensuring they are well-covered. This step will give the cookies that delightful finishing touch!

Step 7: Arrange for Baking
Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking and helps maintain their gooey centers. The sight of these sugared spheres is already inviting you to taste them!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they should be soft and slightly gooey on top but not browned. The edges may firm up while the centers remain irresistibly gooey, perfect for the holiday season.

Step 9: Cooling Time
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to set perfectly before moving them. You’ll notice the enticing aroma and soft texture that make Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies a seasonal favorite.

Step 10: Final Touches
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust them with additional powdered sugar before serving. This final step enhances their festive look and adds a touch of sweetness, making these cookies an irresistible treat during your holiday celebrations.

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What to Serve with Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies

As you prepare for festive gatherings, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your holiday experience!

Creamy Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa complements the cookies’ gooeyness while enhancing the season’s sweetness.
Peppermint Bark: The crunchy, minty bite of peppermint bark offers a delightful contrast to the soft cookies, creating a perfect holiday treat spread.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea mirror the nutmeg in the cookies and provide a cozy beverage option for gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Added on the side, a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a cool, creamy contrast that enhances the cookies’ rich flavors.
Sweet Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider, which pairs beautifully with the cookies’ sweet and savory notes, evoking treasured memories of the season.
Gingerbread Men: These classic holiday cookies bring added spice and chewiness to the table, making them a perfect companion to your eggnog creations.
Chocolate Milk: This creamy drink not only appeals to kids but also balances the sweetness of the cookies, delighting the entire family.
Pecan Pie Bites: The nutty sweetness and buttery texture of mini pecan pie bites elevate your dessert table, creating an indulgent experience.
Shortbread Cookies: Their crumbly texture and buttery flavor complement the gooey centers of the eggnog cookies, perfect for a diverse cookie platter.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink adds an adult touch to your holiday spread, pairing nicely with the cookies’ festive flavors.

Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies and customize them to match your taste!

Cinnamon Twist: Replace ground nutmeg with ground cinnamon for a warm and spicy flavor. This change can give your cookies a cozy twist that is perfect for the holiday season.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Use vanilla extract instead of rum extract for a festive, family-friendly treat. The subtle sweetness of vanilla complements the overall flavors beautifully.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an extra crunch. This variation provides a delightful contrast against the buttery soft texture and adds depth to each bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips for a luscious twist. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the eggnog flavors, making these cookies even more indulgent and appealing.
Frosted Finish: Once cooled, drizzle a simple eggnog glaze over the cookies. Mix powdered sugar with a splash of eggnog for a sweet topping that enhances the festive vibe.
Chewy Alternative: For those who love a firmer bite, incorporate more flour (about 1/4 cup) into the dough. This will create a different texture while still keeping them deliciously gooey.
Flavor Bomb: Use a dash of orange zest or lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile. Citrus notes add a refreshing contrast that elevates these cookies to the next level.
Caramel Addition: Fold in some caramel bits into the dough for a delightful surprise. The melted caramel will create pockets of sweetness that everyone will love.

These variations will surely delight your friends and family, just like our Butter Reeses Cookies or our Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats – both fantastic options to consider for your holiday spread!

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance without sacrificing flavor or texture. Simply follow the recipe instructions up until you chill the dough; once chilled, roll the dough into balls, coat them with powdered sugar, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, bake them directly from the fridge—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This ensures you’ll have fresh, warm cookies on hand, making your holiday gatherings a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their gooey texture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the cookies in a sealed container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave for slightly gooey centers or at room temperature to preserve their delightful texture.

Expert Tips for Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies

Chill for Precision: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain the shape and gooey texture during baking, preventing over-spreading.
Watch the Timer: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be soft and slightly gooey on top, so avoid overbaking to preserve their delightful texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using softened cream cheese and butter at room temperature will allow for better mixing. This contributes to the rich, buttery flavor of your Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies.
Sugar Coating: Ensure each dough ball is generously coated with powdered sugar before baking. This not only adds sweetness but also creates a lovely presentation.
Storage Secrets: Store uneaten cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to two weeks, ensuring you can enjoy these tasty treats longer!

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Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cream cheese for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting cream cheese for your Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies, look for a package labeled as “full-fat” and “softened.” Full-fat cream cheese will provide the richness and creaminess you need for deliciously gooey cookies. You can easily test it by pressing your finger into the block; if it gives easily, it’s perfect for mixing into the batter!

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
The more the merrier! I recommend storing uneaten Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful gooey texture. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies, first, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until they’re firm. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

What if my cookies turn out too dry?
Very! If your Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies aren’t gooey and seem dry, it might be because they were overbaked. Make sure to keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be soft and slightly gooey on top when you take them out. To prevent this in the future, stick to the recommended baking time of 10-12 minutes, and always let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
You’re in luck! This recipe for Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies is nut-free as written. However, always double-check your cake mix and powdered sugar to ensure they are produced in nut-free facilities. If you’re making these cookies for someone with a nut allergy, use caution and make sure all ingredients are safe for their dietary needs.