There’s something quite special about making a batch of cookies in your own kitchen. With their soft, gooey centers and slightly crisp edges, these gluten-free treats bring comfort and warmth. Ideal for weeknights, weekends, gatherings, or just quiet moments at home, they are straightforward to prepare and always a hit. The simplicity of the ingredients makes them a reliable choice, and you can easily enjoy them without any fuss. Let’s dive into making these delightful cookies together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies
These cookies offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience, with a balanced flavor that’s perfectly comforting. The ease of preparation makes them a staple for everyday baking, while the gluten-free aspect ensures everyone can enjoy them. With gooey centers and a slight sweetness, these cookies truly stand out. Their texture combined with a rich buttery flavor makes this a recipe you’ll return to often.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter, salted, room temperature (adds richness)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, block style, room temperature (contributes to softness)
- 2 Large Eggs, room temperature (binds ingredients)
- 1 1/2 Tbsp Vanilla Extract (enhances flavor)
- 2 3/4 cup King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten Free Blend (provides structure)
- 1 1/2 cup Sugar (sweetens cookies)
- 2 tsp Baking Powder (helps with leavening)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (balances sweetness; increase to 1 tsp if using unsalted butter)
- Powdered Sugar, to roll cookies in (adds sweetness and texture)
How to Make Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies
Step 1. Begin by creaming together the butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until these two components are thoroughly combined and smooth. This step is important for achieving the soft texture that the cookies are known for. Look for a light and fluffy consistency, which indicates that enough air has been incorporated into the mixture.
Step 2. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is fully blended together. This will create a wet base for the cookies. You’ll want to ensure the mixture is smooth and homogeneous, as this will help create an even texture in the finished cookies.
Step 3. In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt, contributing to the cookies’ rise and flavor.
Step 4. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until all is well combined. You should see a thick batter forming. Be careful not to overmix; it’s just enough to blend the ingredients together. The final dough will be sticky and somewhat dense.
Step 5. Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle when you roll the cookies. The dough will be slightly firmer after chilling, which is ideal for rolling.
Step 6. Preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper. The parchment helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. As the oven heats, prepare to scoop and roll the chilled dough.
Step 7. Once ready, use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll it into balls and then roll each ball in powdered sugar. This adds sweetness while also creating a lovely finish on the cookies once baked.
Step 8. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. They will spread a little during baking, so leaving enough space ensures even cooking without touching.
Step 9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven until they are lightly golden around the edges. The centers will look slightly gooey, which is a good indication that they are done. This gives them that signature softness that makes them so delightful.
Step 10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them set up just right, so they don’t crumble apart when you move them.
Serving Suggestions
These gluten-free gooey butter cookies work well as a delightful breakfast treat alongside a warm beverage. They also serve as a fantastic snack for both kids and adults, easily enjoyed during family meals or quiet evenings at home. Should you have leftovers, they keep well and make a great addition to lunchboxes or casual gatherings. Their versatile nature means you can enjoy them any time the craving hits, making them a practical choice for your baking repertoire.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Chilling the dough is crucial—don’t skip this step; it prevents sticking and helps maintain shape.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the sugar mixture before rolling.
- Ensure not to overbake; you want a soft center that remains gooey after cooling.
- Using a cookie scoop will help keep all your cookies uniform in size for even baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients: If your butter or cream cheese is too cold, it won’t cream properly, affecting texture. To avoid this, ensure they sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step may result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill for at least an hour to help maintain their shape.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them tender.
- Not measuring the flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out the cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method to accurately measure your gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: An improperly calibrated oven can cause cookies to bake unevenly. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your temperature is accurate.
- Skipping the powdered sugar rolling: If you don’t coat them well, the cookies may not have the signature look and sweetness. Make sure to roll them generously before baking.
Variations & Substitutions
Adding chocolate chips can give a delightful added texture and flavor. You could also experiment with flavored extracts, like almond extract, if you’re feeling adventurous. For a nutty touch, consider adding chopped nuts, as they can complement the creamy texture of the cookies nicely.
Storage & Reheating
For room-temperature storage, keep the cookies in an airtight container, which will maintain their softness for a few days. If you refrigerate them, this can extend their freshness but may slightly alter the texture. For longer storage, freezing the cookies in a single layer works well. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or briefly warm them up in the microwave to bring back the gooey texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just remember to let it chill as the recipe states.
How long does it last in the fridge?
These cookies can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! The cookies freeze well. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container, and they’ll be good for a couple of months.
What can I substitute for one ingredient?
If you need to replace the cream cheese, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.
Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?
Common issues may arise from ingredient temperature, incorrect measurements, or baking time. Make sure to follow the steps closely for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Making gluten-free gooey butter cookies can be a great joy, and the process is relatively straightforward. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the deliciously soft texture and comforting flavor that these cookies bring. They could easily become a favorite in your home. Embrace the simplicity of this recipe and the ease of sharing these delightful treats with family and friends.
Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter, salted, room temperature adds richness
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, block style, room temperature contributes to softness
- 2 Large Eggs, room temperature binds ingredients
- 1 1/2 Tbsp Vanilla Extract enhances flavor
Dry Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cup King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten Free Blend provides structure
- 1 1/2 cup Sugar sweetens cookies
- 2 tsp Baking Powder helps with leavening
- 1/2 tsp Salt balances sweetness; increase to 1 tsp if using unsalted butter
For Coating
- Powdered Sugar Powdered Sugar, to roll cookies in adds sweetness and texture
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by creaming together the butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is fully blended together.
- In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until all is well combined to form a thick batter.
- Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Baking
- Preheat your oven and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Once ready, use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough and roll it into balls, then coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven until lightly golden around the edges, with slightly gooey centers.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.