Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies

A Bright and Chewy Delight for Lemon Lovers

There’s something magical about the combination of soft, chewy cookies and the zesty brightness of lemon. Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies bring these flavors together in an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, looking for a sweet pick-me-up, or simply indulging your love for all things lemon, these cookies are the answer.

With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and tangy citrus flavor, Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are a guaranteed hit. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, thanks to a shortcut ingredient: lemon cake mix. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to whip up these delightful cookies in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies

  • Bright and Citrusy: The fresh lemon juice and zest make these cookies burst with citrus flavor.
  • Soft and Chewy: The cream cheese and butter create a perfectly gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Easy to Make: Using lemon cake mix saves time while still delivering homemade results.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: From bake sales to tea parties, these cookies fit right in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead and store them as mentioned above.

Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?

Absolutely! While lemon cake mix gives these cookies their signature flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or orange for a fun twist.

Ingredients for Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need:

  • 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)

Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these cookies:

  • A large mixing bowl
  • An electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  • A zester or grater
  • A citrus juicer
  • Plastic wrap
  • A baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • A wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated.

Gradually add the lemon cake mix to the bowl, beating until a sticky dough forms. The dough will be quite soft, so don’t worry—it’s supposed to be that way! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle.

2. Preheat and Prep

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

3. Form and Coat

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Next, roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until it’s fully coated. This step gives the cookies their signature crackled appearance when baked.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and gooey. Be careful not to overbake—the cookies should stay tender in the middle.

5. Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies

  • Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
  • Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for easier handling and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  • Don’t Skip the Powdered Sugar: Rolling the dough in powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates the beautiful crackled texture on the surface of the cookies.

Variations and Additions

  • Extra Zest: Love lemon? Add an extra teaspoon of zest for more citrus punch.
  • Lemon-Lime Twist: Substitute half the lemon juice with lime juice for a unique flavor combination.
  • Add White Chocolate Chips: Fold in a handful of white chocolate chips to complement the lemon flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

Storage and Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings

These cookies pair beautifully with:

  • Beverages: Serve them with a cup of Earl Grey tea, lemonade, or even a glass of sparkling wine for a special treat.
  • Ice Cream: Turn them into a dessert sandwich by placing a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream between two cookies.
  • Fruit: Complement the citrus flavor with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad.

How Do I Prevent the Dough from Sticking to My Hands?

If the dough feels sticky while rolling, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar or coat them with a bit of cooking spray.

Time to Bake!

Now that you know all the tips and tricks for making Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, it’s time to get baking! These cookies are guaranteed to brighten your day with their vibrant flavor and soft, gooey texture.

Love this recipe? Share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas. Happy baking! 🍋🍪

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