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+ servings
A plate of freshly baked Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, dusted with powdered sugar.

Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies

These Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies combine creamy butter and cream cheese for a soft, gooey texture, enhanced by bright lemon flavors, making them perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cookie Batter Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature Adds richness and moisture
  • 1 package cream cheese, room temperature (8-ounce) Creates a soft, gooey texture
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest Enhances lemon flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Adds acidity
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Sweetness and structure
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Binds and adds moisture
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract Intensifies lemon flavor
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth of flavor
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour Provides structure
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, divided For coating and sweetness
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent for rise
  • ½ teaspoon salt Balances sweetness

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat these together until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon extract, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and creamy.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold until combined.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper if desired.
  • Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and coat in powdered sugar. Place on cookie sheet.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes. The edges should be set and centers slightly puffy. Cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Dust the cooled cookies with any remaining powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Chill the dough adequately to prevent spreading while baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 90mgSugar: 12g
Keyword baking, comfort food, Easy Cookies, Gooey Butter Cookies, Lemon Cookies
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