Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies: A Zesty Delight for Your Sweet Tooth
If you are searching for a treat that combines a delightful tanginess with a rich, buttery flavor, look no further than Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies. These cookies are not just any ordinary dessert; they capture the essence of sunshine in every bite. The gooey texture paired with the fresh lemon taste creates a cookie experience that is both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for gatherings or simply indulging at home, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To make Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 box of lemon cake mix (15.25 ounces)
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup of powdered sugar for dusting
– Optional: Zest from one lemon for extra flavor
These core ingredients provide the foundation for your cookies. The lemon cake mix serves as the base, offering a sweet and citrusy flavor profile. Cream cheese adds richness and moisture, while butter ensures a tender texture. The eggs bind everything together, and vanilla extract rounds out the flavors beautifully. If you want to intensify the lemony goodness, adding zest will take these cookies to another level.
Instructions
To prepare your Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat them together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the lemon cake mix into the wet mixture. Stir until combined but do not overmix; some lumps are okay.
6. If using lemon zest, fold it into the batter at this stage for added flavor.
7. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
8. Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
9. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden but the centers remain soft.
10. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Baking these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies is straightforward and requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction. The balance between sweetness and tanginess makes them an irresistible option for any occasion.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To achieve perfectly gooey cookies every time, consider these helpful tips:
– Use room temperature ingredients: Softened cream cheese and butter blend more easily into a smooth batter.
– Do not overbake: The key to that gooey center is ensuring you take them out while they still look slightly underbaked.
– Adjust chilling time: If your dough feels too sticky after mixing, chill it longer before scooping.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftover Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate them for longer freshness. You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm and then transferring them to freezer bags.
Conclusion
Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for anyone who loves a combination of sweet and tart flavors wrapped up in a soft cookie texture. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can bake up a batch that will impress family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later indulgence, these cookies are sure to brighten anyone’s day with their delightful taste and cheerful appearance.
Now it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking these delicious treats! Enjoy every gooey bite of your Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies!
Tips and tricks
To make the perfect Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, follow these simple tips. Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The zest contains essential oils that enhance the taste of your cookies. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately; this is crucial for achieving the right texture. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and ensures a gooey center. When baking, keep an eye on them; they should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle. Lastly, dust with powdered sugar right after they cool for a beautiful finish.
FAQs
What are Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies?
Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are a delightful treat known for their soft, chewy texture and bright lemon flavor. They originated from St. Louis, Missouri, where gooey butter cake became popular. These cookies capture that essence by combining butter, sugar, cream cheese, and fresh lemon juice to create a rich and tangy dessert that melts in your mouth. The powdered sugar sprinkled on top gives them a sweet finish and a lovely presentation.
How do I store Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies?
Storing Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies is easy! Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Can I freeze Lemon Gooey Butter Cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Gooey Butter Cookie dough! To do this, scoop individual cookie portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls into an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake them, simply remove as many as you want and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking as directed.
These Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their bright flavor and soft texture make them irresistible treats that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or share them at gatherings, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!