These Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are a citrusy twist on the classic gooey butter cookies. Soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they’re rolled in powdered sugar for a perfectly sweet, crinkled finish. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple sweet treat to brighten your day!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using), and mix until combined. Gradually add the lemon cake mix, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make the dough easier to handle.
- Shape and Coat: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Bake: Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with tea or as a light dessert!
Nutrition (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Sugar: 10g
