Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. If you’ve ever craved a cookie that’s soft, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and incredibly easy to make, this is it. After numerous attempts to recreate the classic gooey butter cookie without gluten, I finally achieved success.
These Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies feature a delicate, powdered sugar-coated exterior that gives way to a rich, buttery, and irresistibly gooey center.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THESE GLUTEN FREE GOOEY BUTTER COOKIES
- Unbelievably Easy & Quick: The Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies recipe requires no chilling time, no fancy equipment, and the dough comes together in just minutes, making them the perfect last-minute treat.
- The Perfect “Gooey” Texture: These cookies achieve the ideal balance, offering a soft and chewy texture while still delivering that signature, irresistible gooey quality in the center.
- A Gluten-Free Treat That Excels Everyone: They are a fantastic gluten-free option that truly stands on its own. The flavor is so rich and delicious that no one would guess they’re gluten-free, making them a guaranteed hit for everyone, regardless of dietary preference.
- Pure, Rich Flavor: The dominant flavor is one of pure, rich, buttery perfection, a classic taste that is universally loved.
Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies: Your New Favorite Treat
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Soft, chewy, and sweet Gluten-Free Gooey Butter Cookies with a tender texture and powdered sugar coating a delicious twist on the classic treat.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15 oz) gluten-free yellow cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
- 2. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- 3. Stir in gluten-free cake mix until a soft dough forms.
- 4. Cover dough and chill for 30 minutes to firm up.
- 5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat in powdered sugar.
- 7. Place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- 8. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cookies are set but still soft in the center.
- 9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
- Chilling the dough helps make rolling easier and prevents spreading.
- Do not overbake — the cookies should be soft and gooey in the middle.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: gluten free cookies, gooey butter cookies, easy dessert
HOW TO MAKE GLUTEN FREE GOOEY BUTTER COOKIES
The process for making these Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies is wonderfully straightforward. It’s a simple case of mixing, rolling, and baking. You’ll be enjoying warm cookies in no time flat.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 (8-ounce) block of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box gluten-free yellow cake mix (I recommend brands like Betty Crocker or King Arthur for consistent results)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
DIRECTIONS STEP BY STEP:
Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cream the Base: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment) to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. This should take about 2 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until they are fully incorporated and the mixture looks light and fluffy.
Incorporate the Cake Mix: Gradually add the entire box of gluten-free cake mix to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. The dough will be very soft and sticky. This is exactly what you want!
Roll the Cookies: Place 1 cup of powdered sugar in a small bowl. Using a medium cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms. Then, generously roll each ball in the powdered sugar until it’s completely coated. Place the sugared balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies will still look soft and puffy, and the tops may have cracks. They should not brown around the edges. Do not overbake! This is the secret to a gooey center.
Cool and Enjoy: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for at least 5 minutes. They are very delicate when hot. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The powdered sugar will have cracked, creating that beautiful, classic look.
THE SECRET TO THEIR GOOEY TEXTURE
The extraordinary texture of these Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies isn’t an accident; it’s the direct result of a carefully balanced combination of ingredients and technique.
- High-Fat Content for Tenderness: The generous amounts of cream cheese and butter are crucial. This high fat content coats the flour particles, inhibiting gluten formation (even in GF flour) and creating an incredibly rich, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Gluten-Free Cake Mix for Ideal Structure: Using a gluten-free cake mix is a strategic choice. It provides the perfect amount of starch and structure without the protein network that can make cookies tough. This is key to achieving a soft and chewy texture rather than a dense or cakey one.
- Short Baking Time for the Signature “Gooey” Center: The most critical step is the relatively short baking time. The cookies are removed from the oven while the centers are still under-baked. As they cool on the baking sheet, the edges set while the center remains soft, creating that irresistible, gooey texture that is the hallmark of this treat.
In essence, these three factors work in harmony: the fat ensures tenderness, the GF mix provides soft structure, and the quick bake preserves the gooey center. It’s a perfect recipe designed for texture.
A CROWD-PLEASING GLUTEN FREE GOOEY BUTTER COOKIES TREAT
These Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies are the ultimate solution for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a potluck, or need a safe and delicious treat for a school event, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They are so delicious that no one will even suspect they are gluten-free.
I’ve served these to skeptics and watched their eyes light up with delight. They bridge the gap between dietary need and universal deliciousness, making everyone feel included and happy.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CAKE MIX
The choice of cake mix is important for the best results. Look for a standard 15.25-ounce box of gluten-free yellow cake mix. I have had excellent results with Betty Crocker’s Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix and King Arthur Flour’s Gluten Free Cake Mix.
These brands are reliable and produce a consistent texture. Avoid cake mixes that are labeled “pudding in the mix” or ones that are unusually dense, as they can alter the final texture of the cookie. Stick with a classic yellow mix for that authentic gooey butter flavor.
DELICIOUS VARIATIONS TO TRY
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the fun begins! You can easily customize these Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies.
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Almond Extract: Replace the vanilla extract with 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for a wonderfully nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Chip: Gently fold in 3/4 cup of gluten-free chocolate chips after mixing the dough.
- Funfetti: Use a gluten-free funfetti cake mix and add 1/4 cup of extra sprinkles to the dough for a festive look.
SWEET TREATS—THE HEALTHY WAY
Baking gluten-free at home shifts the control to you, allowing for more conscious ingredient choices that don’t sacrifice indulgence.
| Aspect | Standard Approach | Mindful, Homemade Approach | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingredient Control | Limited choice; pre-made mix ingredients are fixed. | You select a cake mix with a simple, recognizable ingredient list. | Avoids unwanted additives and allows for transparency. |
| Nutritional Boost | Relies solely on the refined ingredients in the mix. | You can incorporate nutrient-dense alternatives like almond flour. | Adds healthy fats, protein, and fiber for a more satisfying treat. |
| Final Result | A standard gluten-free cookie. | A cookie that feels indulgent but is made with mindful choices. | Achieves a balance between delicious flavor and better-for-you ingredients. |
DON’T FORGET THE SEEDS!
While not used in this Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies recipe, almond flour is made from ground almonds, which are technically seeds! They’re a great source of nutrition in many gluten-free baked goods.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ROOM TEMPERATURE INGREDIENTS
This is a non-negotiable tip for perfect cookies! Using room-temperature cream cheese, butter, and egg is absolutely critical. When these ingredients are at the same temperature, they emulsify properly, creating a smooth, homogenous dough.
If the cream cheese or butter is too cold, you’ll end up with a lumpy batter that’s difficult to mix and can lead to uneven baking. Plan ahead by taking your ingredients out of the refrigerator about 1-2 hours before you start baking.
HOW TO SERVE AND ENJOY GLUTEN FREE GOOEY BUTTER COOKIES
- The Classic Pairing: Enjoy them slightly warm with an ice-cold glass of milk for the ultimate comforting treat.
- As a Decadent Dessert: Crumble them over a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream to create an incredible, easy gluten-free dessert.
- For a Festive Touch: Drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple powdered sugar glaze or a little melted chocolate to make them extra special for the holidays.
- Perfect for Sharing: Their unique texture and flavor make them ideal for cookie exchanges, thoughtful gifts packaged in a festive tin, or simply as a well-deserved treat with your afternoon coffee.
HOW TO STORE FOR MAXIMUM FRESHNESS
To maintain the soft, gooey texture of your Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies, follow these simple storage guidelines:
| Storage Method | Instructions | Duration | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Store in an airtight container at room temperature. | Up to 3 days for best freshness. | This method is best for short-term storage to preserve the soft texture. |
| Freezing | 1. Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. 2. Freeze until solid. 3. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. | Up to 2 months. | Freezing individually first prevents the cookies from sticking together. |
| Thawing | Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature. | 30-60 minutes. |
TIPS TO MAKE THE PERFECT BATCH GLUTEN FREE GOOEY BUTTER COOKIES
A few key tips will ensure Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies’ success every single time.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the cake mix, mix on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies will look underdone when you take them out. They will continue to set as they cool on the hot baking sheet. This is the secret to the gooey center!
- Generous Sugar Coating: Don’t be shy with the powdered sugar when rolling. A thick coating gives them their classic cracked appearance and delightful sweetness.
- Use a Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures all your cookies are the same size, which means they will bake evenly.
TIPS AND NOTES: YOUR BAKING COMPANION
DETAILS
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
VARIATION
Chocolate Lovers: Use a gluten-free devil’s food chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for an intensely chocolatey, brownie-like cookie.
NOTES
The dough will be very soft. If you find it too sticky to roll, you can pop it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly. However, this is rarely necessary if you work quickly with lightly dusted hands.
GLUTEN FREE GOOEY BUTTER COOKIES FAQS
How do I make gluten-free Danish butter cookies?
To make gluten-free Danish butter cookies, simply replace regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Use classic ingredients like unsalted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Chill the dough for easy shaping, then pipe or roll into traditional shapes. Bake until edges are lightly golden. For best texture, don’t overbake.
Why are my gluten-free gooey butter cookies not gooey?
If your cookies are turning out dry or cakey, try these fixes:
Bake Time: Pull them out when the edges are set, but the center is still soft.
Flour Type: Use a light 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, avoid dense blends with bean or coconut flours.
Measurement: Spoon and level your flour too much can ruin the texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened properly for even mixing.
Can I make these lemon flavored?
Yes! To give your gooey butter cookies a bright lemon twist:
Add 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Optionally, include a drop of lemon extract for extra zing
You can also roll the cookies in powdered sugar mixed with a pinch of lemon zest before baking
How do I make Christmas ooey gooey butter cookies?
To make these cookies holiday-ready:
Use festive wrappers or cookie stamps to dress them up for gifting
Mix red and green sprinkles into the dough or on top after baking
Add peppermint extract (½ tsp) or orange zest for a seasonal flavor
Roll dough in powdered sugar mixed with edible glitter or crushed candy canes
FINAL THOUGHTS—LET’S BAKE
I am so excited for you to try this recipe for Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies. They are a testament to the fact that gluten-free baking can be simple, accessible, and incredibly delicious. So, preheat that oven, grab your favorite mixing bowl, and get ready to bake a batch of pure, unadulterated joy.