Name: Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: PT-485619H17M
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

Looking for a delightful citrus-infused treat to tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies! Bursting with tangy lemon flavor and boasting a melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are a delightful twist on the classic buttery indulgence. Simple to whip up and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving a sweet snack or impressing guests at a gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to bring a burst of sunshine to your baking endeavors.

Ingredients:

1 box lemon cake mix

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon lemon extract

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, creating a creamy base for your cookies.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon extract to the bowl, and mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined, infusing the mixture with a burst of citrus freshness.

Gradually incorporate the lemon cake mix into the mixture, stirring until all ingredients are fully blended. This will create a soft, doughy consistency.

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle.

Once chilled, scoop the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in powdered sugar, coating them generously for a hint of sweetness and a beautiful, crinkled exterior.

Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion during baking.

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are cracked, resulting in a perfectly gooey center and a slightly crisp exterior.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to firm up and develop their irresistible texture.

For an extra burst of citrus flavor and a touch of vibrant color, sprinkle the cooled cookies with optional lemon zest before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serve Fresh: Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they are still warm and gooey. Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk for the ultimate indulgence.

Store Properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days, maintaining their delicious texture and flavor.

Reheating: If you find that the cookies have lost their freshness after a few days, you can revive them by reheating them in the microwave for a few seconds or popping them back in a preheated oven for a couple of minutes. This will help restore their soft, gooey center.

Freezing: Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies also freeze exceptionally well. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating the layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes.

Presentation: For an extra touch of elegance when serving, dust the cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances their visual appeal.

Related Recipes:

Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake

FAQs:

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for these cookies?

Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for lemon cake mix to enhance the citrus flavor, you can experiment with other flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or even strawberry for a unique twist on the classic gooey butter cookie. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will vary accordingly.

I don’t have lemon extract. Can I omit it or substitute it with something else?

If you don’t have lemon extract on hand, you can omit it from the recipe without sacrificing too much flavor. The lemon zest and lemon cake mix will still provide plenty of citrusy goodness. Alternatively, you can substitute it with a small amount of fresh lemon juice, although the flavor may be slightly less intense.

Why do I need to chill the cookie dough before baking?

Chilling the cookie dough is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and shape into balls. Additionally, chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld together and develop, resulting in a richer, more flavorful cookie. Finally, it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier texture.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a special occasion?

Yes, these cookies are perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare the dough and shape it into balls, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped dough balls for longer storage, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes. Just be sure to thaw the frozen dough balls in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion:

With their tangy lemon flavor, soft, gooey texture, and delightful powdered sugar coating, these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re treating yourself to a sweet indulgence or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are guaranteed to brighten any occasion with their sunny disposition. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and embark on a journey to citrus bliss with this irresistible recipe!

📖 Recipe: