Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Cake Mix
01 -
435 g lemon cake mix
→ Dairy
02 -
115 g unsalted butter, softened
03 -
225 g cream cheese, softened
→ Wet Ingredients
04 -
1 large egg
05 -
5 ml vanilla extract
06 -
15 g fresh lemon zest (from approximately 1 large lemon)
07 -
15 ml fresh lemon juice
→ Coating
08 -
60 g powdered sugar, for rolling
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth and creamy to create the base for the cookies.
02 -
Add the egg, vanilla extract, fresh lemon zest, and lemon juice to the bowl. Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring the citrus flavor is well distributed.
03 -
Gradually add the lemon cake mix to the wet ingredients. Blend on low speed using the mixer, then fold with a rubber spatula until no dry streaks remain and a soft, sticky dough forms.
04 -
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes to firm up, facilitating easier shaping and minimizing spreading during baking.
05 -
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
06 -
Scoop dough portions using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon. Roll each portion into a ball, then coat thoroughly in powdered sugar to form the signature crackled crust.
07 -
Arrange dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced approximately 5 cm apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft to achieve the gooey texture.
08 -
Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with your preferred beverage.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Allow butter and cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing for optimal dough consistency. Chilling the dough is essential to prevent excessive spreading and to develop the moist, tender texture. Use fresh lemon zest over bottled extracts for a brighter citrus profile. Avoid overbaking; cookies should be removed when centers appear slightly undercooked to preserve gooeyness.