Several years ago, I had a version of these cookies while my sister-in-law’s mother was visiting for Christmas. They left such an impression that I’ve thought about them often ever since. Recently, I decided to track down the recipe and give it a try.
Trust me, if you make these Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, you’re going to have a hard time resisting them. They’re soft, chewy, and bursting with a rich buttery flavor that makes them absolutely irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, they’re the kind of treat that disappears as soon as they hit the plate.
I found this recipe on the Betty Crocker site and wanted to share it with you. I’ve included the link to their recipe and video guide below—happy baking! And don’t say I didn’t warn you—they’re dangerously good!
Ingredients
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 box Betty Crocker™ Super Moist™ Yellow Cake Mix
1-2 cups powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
Add Cake Mix: Gradually stir in the yellow cake mix until fully combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step makes it easier to handle.
Form Cookie Balls: Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
Coat in Powdered Sugar: Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Bake: Place the cookie balls on ungreased cookie sheets, spaced about 1 inch apart. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, you can sprinkle more powdered sugar on top before serving.
Tips
For variations, consider using different cake mixes like chocolate or lemon.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days (there is no way these cookies are still going to be around three days later. 😉)
Enjoy these delicious gooey butter cookies that are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
I love cranberry sauce! This is tangy and sweet dip that’s perfect for holiday parties.
Ingredients:
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (15 ounce) can cranberry sauce
1 teaspoon grated orange zest (optional)
1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper. For a sweeter dip, add a bit of orange zest or a splash of orange juice. Beat until smooth.
Fold in cranberry sauce: Gently fold in the cranberry sauce until combined.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
Serve: Serve with your favorite crackers, vegetables, or chips.
I’m in the mood for holiday food. Over the next few days I am going to be sharing some holiday recipes. I love gingerbread cookies! These classic gingerbread cookies are perfect for decorating and gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup molasses
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
Royal icing (for decorating)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or foil.
Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until1 just combined.
Roll and cut: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate: Once cooled, decorate the cookies with royal icing and sprinkles.
Royal Icing:
3 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons meringue powder*
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5-6 tablespoons water
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and beat with a mixer until smooth and spreadable.
*If you need a substitute for meringue powder, you can use an equal amount of reconstituted egg white powder mixed with water, a slightly smaller amount of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas), or a gelatin mixture made with warm water and gelatin powder – just be sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly depending on the substitute you choose.
Enjoy these festive treats with a cup of hot cocoa, glass of milk, coffee, or tea!
Christmas has always been one of my favorite times of the year because it’s a season filled with warmth, connection, and traditions that bring people together. From the twinkling lights and festive decorations to the joy of giving and reflecting on the year, the Christmas music and cookies, get togethers and gift exchanges, it’s a time that feels both magical and meaningful.
Growing up as part of the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church, the holiday season was packed with traditions that filled every corner of my life. From the moment Thanksgiving ended, the church sprang into a whirlwind of festive activities, each designed to foster connection, celebrate the season, and, of course, glorify God. For years, these moments were not just traditions—they were my foundation for what Christmas was supposed to look and feel like.
I loved decorating the church. It was a group effort, a tradition that kicked off the holiday season. Members of the congregation gathered together to hang garlands, string lights, and place nativity scenes just so. The sanctuary, usually simple and bare, transformed into a glowing reflection of the holiday spirit, and the work itself was as much a joy as the finished product. It wasn’t just about the decorations; it was the fellowship, the laughter, and the shared excitement for the season.
Each year there was a Christmas cantata. Whether I was performing as a character in the play portion, singing in the choir or helping behind the scenes, they always brought a sense of purpose and joy. The cantata had a special way of connecting the church body, weaving together stories that aimed to remind us of the true meaning of Christmas and songs that were fun to sing and listen to. From memorizing lines to rehearsing songs, the entire process felt sacred, like we were preparing a gift not just for the congregation but for God Himself.
And then there was caroling as a child . Every December, groups from the church would bundle up and head to local nursing homes to sing Christmas hymns. It was a humbling, heartwarming experience to see the smiles of residents who often didn’t have visitors. The songs were simple, but their impact was profound, and there was something deeply fulfilling about spreading a little joy during what could otherwise be a lonely season for some.
Christmas Eve services were a big part of our Christmas tradition. The stillness, the reverence, the candle lit service of the familiar readings of the Christmas story from the book of Luke—it all felt so important. I can still picture the warm glow of candlelight filling the sanctuary during the singing of the Christmas hymns. It was a moment of awe and connection, a reminder of why we celebrated in the first place. We were all about to go off and celebrate with our separate families, but for that moment with our voices rising together in unison we were all a close community celebrating together.
But now, for me, all of that is gone. Leaving the IFB community changed the way I experience Christmas. It’s not that I don’t still find joy in the holiday season—I absolutely do—but there’s an undeniable gap where those traditions used to be. Decorating my home with my family is enjoyable, but it is not the same as the camaraderie of decorating the church with dozens of others. Watching holiday movies or singing along to Christmas carols is one of my favorite things to do. And while I still attend Christmas Eve services at a different church, the experience feels different from what I knew all of those years. The people around me are kind and welcoming, but it’s not the same deep-rooted community I grew up with.
Over time, I’ve started creating new traditions. I’ve discovered the beauty of a quiet Christmas morning, sipping coffee by the tree while reflecting on the year. I’ve found joy in hosting small gatherings with friends, making space for authentic connection without the pressure of perfection. And while it’s taken time, I’m beginning to see that Christmas isn’t about where or how you celebrate—it’s about the love, peace, and joy you carry with you, no matter where life takes you.
Still, there are moments when the ache of what’s been lost resurfaces. I think that’s part of the process—learning to hold space for both gratitude and grief. While the traditions I once knew may no longer be part of my life, they shaped who I am and how I celebrate today. And as I continue to navigate this new chapter, I’m reminded that Christmas, at its core, is about hope—a hope that remains, even as the seasons of life change.
This gap is more than just nostalgia—it’s a reminder of the relationships and shared experiences that were intertwined with my faith. It’s not just about missing the activities; it’s about missing the sense of belonging, the feeling that I was part of something bigger. For years, Christmas was inseparable from the church, and without that framework, I’ve had to learn how to rebuild my holiday traditions in a way that feels meaningful to me without the church.
Sending you the merriest Christmas wishes, wrapped in love and sprinkled with joy! May your holidays be filled with the laughter, coziness, cherished traditions, and the beauty of the season. Cheers to a wonderful Christmas and a bright, happy New Year!
It is almost Christmas and that means gift giving and and getting.Even thought I wouldn’t necessarily buy all of these things for myself, it is exciting to think about items that I would like to add to my collection. Wishlists give me a chance to explore new skincare, makeup, and other beauty items that catch my eye and pique my interest without any actual monetary risk. Here is a Christmas wishlist that I have created. Maybe you want to curate your own beauty wishlist or even add some of the things from my list to yours! (All the photos included below are the property of their respective originating company.)
There is so much hype around this blush that whenever I go into Sephora the shades that I want are always sold out. My daughter recently purchased this for her birthday and she loves it.
Experience the featherlight allure of a long-lasting liquid blush that effortlessly blends and builds to achieve a soft, healthy flush. This weightless formula, available in both matte and dewy finishes, imparts a pinch-perfect glow. Infused with enduring pigments, it delivers a natural, second-skin finish that lasts throughout the day. With thirteen shades and two finishes—radiant and matte—this liquid blush showcases its versatility. An esteemed recipient of the Allure Best of Beauty award, this product ensures a seamlessly beautiful and buildable application.
Fenty’s Cookies N Clean Whipped Clay Pore Detox Face Mask with salicylic acid + charcoal, priced at $35 USD in a 75 ml / 2.5 oz, designed to detoxify pores without causing dryness. This 10-minute pore detox combines whipped clay and charcoal to deeply purify pores, removing dirt and leaving the skin soft and conditioned. Clinically tested, it instantly improves skin texture and combats shine throughout the day. The lightweight whipped clay extracts dirt, oil, and impurities, while encapsulated charcoal bursts upon massaging, aiding in detoxification. Salicylic acid contributes to pore clarification. The mask instantly refines skin texture, minimizes the appearance of pores, and reduces excess oil. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, and fragrance-free, it is noncomedogenic, making it ideal for all skin types, even sensitive and dry. Vegan, wheat gluten-free, and earth-conscious, this mask has undergone a 2-week clinical study on 53 people, demonstrating instant and lasting benefits, such as improved skin texture, reduced surface oil, and unanimous agreement on its purifying, detoxifying, and shine-reducing properties.
These sneakers are so cute! Crafted from faux leather, the upper of this lace-up sneaker boasts a padded collar and tongue for enhanced comfort. Making a confident statement with its timeless style, the platform midsole provides a subtle lift, and the rubber outsole ensures essential traction. Featuring a faux leather upper, lace-up closure, padded collar and tongue, a cushioned comfort insole, platform midsole, and a rubber traction outsole, this sneaker combines bold aesthetics with practical functionality.
If you have a middle or high school girl living in your house you already know all about the LuLuLemon Everywhere Belt Bag. It is a versatile accessory priced at $38 USD with a 1L capacity. Crafted from water-repellent fabric, this bag is specifically designed for those on the move. It features an exterior zippered pocket for securing valuables, while interior pockets offer convenient storage for essentials. Once you achieve your perfect fit, tuck the excess belt bag strap into the elastic loops for a streamlined look. The bag dimensions measure 19cm x 5.5cm x 13cm (7.5″ x 2″ x 5″), and the fully extended strap length reaches 106cm (41.7”). The materials include 100% recycled polyester for both the mesh and lining, with the body crafted from 100% nylon. Care instructions advise spot cleaning and caution against washing, bleaching, tumble drying, ironing, or dry cleaning. Imported for quality and style, the Everywhere Belt Bag combines practical features with sustainable materials for a reliable and eco-friendly accessory.
I have been working out again and these gentle support high waisted legging have caught my eye. The Nike Zenvy Women’s Gentle-Support High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings priced at $100, available in 21 different colorways. Whether you’re engaged in yoga, cycling, or a leisurely walk, these leggings provide unparalleled freedom of movement in their Infinasoft fabric. Remarkably soft yet squat-proof, the fabric ensures comfort with every bend, stretch, and shift. The streamlined design with fewer pockets offers a clean aesthetic, while the center back drop-in pocket is generously sized to accommodate your phone. Durable for repeated wear and washing, these leggings boast a tight fit for a snug and form-fitting experience, gentle support that feels like a soft hug, a 7/8 length that hits at the ankle, and a high-waisted style that sits at or above your natural waist for added coverage. Notably, the recycled nylon used in Nike products, derived from materials like recycled carpet and used fish nets, undergoes eco-friendly processes, reducing carbon emissions by up to 50% compared to virgin nylon. Embrace sustainability with Nike’s Move to Zero journey, committed to zero carbon and zero waste, designing products with environmental consciousness to protect the future of where we live and play.
What It Is: A deep-cleansing OUAI scrub with tropics-inspired notes of dragonfruit, orange blossom, tuberose, and Baltic amber
Good to Know: Paraben free, phthalate free
What It Does: Exfoliates impurities from your scalp and smooths out dry skin, while simultaneously offering reliable nourishment
Skin Type: For all types
How to Use: Scalp: In the shower, section wet hair to reveal the scalp. Apply a quarter-size amount directly to the scalp and rub in circular motions, then rinse. Body: Apply to damp skin and rub in circular motions to gently exfoliate
This skincare trio offers a high-potency toner, a skin-strengthening moisturizer, and a brightening eye crème to help you relax, recharge, and renew your complexion in three simple steps. The set includes the Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner (65 ml/2.2 oz), which reduces the appearance of dark circles and retextures the skin; the full-size Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer (50 ml/1.7 oz), which instantly hydrates and strengthens the skin; and the Banana Bright+ Eye Crème (7 ml/0.25 oz), providing an instant brightening effect for the undereye area while visibly reducing crow’s feet. This trio, known for its retexturizing, brightening, dark circle-reducing, hydrating, and strengthening benefits, is a bestseller. The Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner is applied at night using a cotton pad, followed by an OLEHENRIKSEN serum or moisturizer. The Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer is evenly applied to the face and neck in the morning and evening after serum application, while the Banana Bright+ Eye Crème is delicately applied with the ring finger to the undereye area. For external use only. Use as directed. Sunburn alert: The toner contains alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), increasing skin sensitivity to the sun, so use sunscreen and protective clothing, limiting sun exposure. Avoid the eye area, and in case of contact, rinse immediately. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
I already own a few beloved items from Ole Henriksen, but I haven’t yet tried their best selling vitamin C eye cream. “With a new and upgraded fragrance-free formula, now featuring real gold, that brightens, visibly diminishes dark circles and crow’s feet and improves concealer application and wear.
Powered by a potent triple vitamin C complex with REAL gold, which improves delivery of vitamin C to the skin, Banana Bright+ Eye Crème is clinically formulated to instantly brighten, smooth and hydrate undereyes, while also visibly reducing fine lines and wrinkles and defending skin against harmful free radicals and pollution.
The vegan, fragrance-free formula also features our iconic universally-flattering light-reflecting mineral pigments—inspired by makeup artist must-have, banana powder—to instantly-color-correct and revive tired under eyes. But that’s not all: It’s also crease-resistant and improves concealer wear.”
I have heard a lot of good things about the Well People Bio Complexion Starter Set for $67 which includes a 3 piece complexion starter kit.
“Full product description: This all-in-one makeup kit features three of our bestselling full-size Bio Complexion products and is the key to a beautifully smooth complexion. It’s everything you need for your complexion to create the ideal base for the “no makeup” makeup look, conceal imperfections, control excess shine, and customize your coverage. This plant-powered trio is infused with Pomegranate Oil, Broccoli Seed Oil, and Olive-derived Squalane to hydrate for glowing healthy-looking skin.
The set includes:
Bio Correct Concealer: A buildable full-coverage concealer that seamlessly covers blemishes and corrects dark spots.
Bio Tint Moisturizer: A skin-perfecting tinted moisturizer with light-to-medium coverage and SPF 30 protection.
Bio Powder Foundation: A weightless pressed powder foundation that perfects and smooths the skin with a semi-matte finish.”
“Brighten up with this game-changing serum. This ultra-potent 10% blend of two forms of vitamin C, turmeric, and camu camu instantly brightens skin and helps even skin tone. The antioxidant-rich formula also helps defend skin from the damaging effects of environmental stressors, revealing a more youthful-looking complexion.
Benefits:
Brightening:A unique blend of two ultra-stable forms of vitamin C delivers a supercharged 10% potency
Quick-absorbing: Our quick-absorbing formula allows for easy layering and an instant boost of radiance
Glow-boosting: Leaves skin glowing and promotes an even skin tone
Clinically proven to:*
Even skin tone
Improve skin radiance/brightness
After eight weeks:**
100% said skin looked brighter
94% said it reduced the appearance of dark spots
97% said skin looked more youthful
94% said skin tone looked more even
*Based on a 32-subject clinical study after eight weeks.
**Based on a 32-subject consumer perception study after eight weeks of use. “
I have been totally obsessed with wide leg pants recently. I think that these are a beautiful pair of pants. I doubt they will look like this on me, but a short legged girl can dream right?!
Sophisticated and decadent, this exceptionally tailored pant is crafted from our best-selling Italian stretch-wool with elegant double pleating at the front to enhance its wide-leg silhouette. Relaxed Wide-Leg Fit: Super high waisted. Relaxed fit from hip to thigh, voluminous leg. Full length. FROM ITALY’S MARZOTTO MILL: This style is crafted using fabric from Italy’s Marzotto mill – one of the oldest mills in Italy, renowned for creating innovative fabrics from the world’s most luxurious fibers. Adjustable: Internal button-tabs at the waistband adjust from high-rise to ultra-high rise. Zip fly with hook-and-bar closure. Belt loops. Front and back pockets. *Runs 1 size large. Size down if you prefer more form-fitting.
Made with sustainably sourced TENCEL™ branded Lyocell fibers for a supremely soft fabric. Two button closure with zip fly. Slant front pockets. Oversized patch pockets on legs. Seams down front legs. Adjustable tab at back waist. Back waist darts. Made exclusively for Banana Republic Factory.
What is on your beauty and fashion wish list? I would love to hear about it in the comments!
**An affiliate link is a unique URL provided by an affiliate program or network to their partners, such as bloggers or website owners. When someone clicks on an affiliate link and makes a purchase or completes a desired action, the affiliate partner earns a commission or other form of compensation. These links are specifically tracked to attribute sales or conversions generated through the partner’s promotional efforts. In summary, an affiliate link is a specialized link that allows partners to earn commissions by driving traffic and sales to a particular product or service.**
If you have made it this far in the post, thanks for reading all the way to the end. I still have a few more finding faith following fundamentalism post, but I needed to take a break from the heavier topics I have been writing about. What is more vapid and mindless than a wishlist, am I right?! 😉
Hear the quiet of the starry night
Scattered shepherds watch the sky
Suddenly the dark gives way to light
The angel speaks of the Messiah
Be of good courage
See the star hovering above
Today a Savior is born to us
Glory, glory in the highest
We sing glory to His name
Peace on Earth to all who come
To worship Christ the King
We sing, glory in the highest
In the highest
See the God who spoke the earth to be
Take a break as a baby
Look beyond the child and see the King
Come to rescue and redeem
Glory, glory in the highest
We sing glory to His name
Peace on Earth to all who come
To worship Christ the King
We sing, glory in the highest
In the highest
Gloria, gloria, in excelsis Deo
Gloria, gloria, in excelsis Deo
Glory, glory in the highest
We sing glory to His name
Peace on Earth to all who come
To worship Christ the King
We sing, glory…
Glory, glory in the highest
We sing glory to His name
Peace on Earth to all who come
To worship Christ the King
We sing, glory in the highest
Glory, in the highest
In the highest
As Christmas approaches it seems we have to go faster and faster!
The traffic keeps getting worse. The lines in the stores keep getting longer. The calendar is full of special events, parties, and gatherings with family and friends.
Programs. Parties. Shopping trips. Baking days. Cookie swaps. Wrapping nights. Office Dinners….the list goes on and on.
The song says that we are Dreaming of a white Christmas. But in reality, most of us are dreaming of something else entirely… a Silent Night!
Our calendars become overloaded and we become overwhelmed. Instead of enjoying the spiritual significance of the season, we find ourselves just trying to get through the rush. We rush here, hurry there…
At every turn, there are people to see, things to do, stuff to buy. The hustle and bustle of this happiest time of the year can take the holly-jolly right out of our holidays and replace it with a go go go splitting headache instead.
In Luke 2 we meet a group of shepherds that were “on the clock” working in the fields. Suddenly when an ensemble of angels told them that Christ had been born they immediately left their work and went to find Jesus. Luke 2:16 says “And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.”
Maybe we should do the same today. In the middle of our holiday rush and hurry and hustle and bustle, we should stop and leave our work to go find Jesus. We should slow down long enough to hurry in another direction… towards Jesus. We could be calm, quiet, and settled in Jesus’ presence.
As a result, we might discover an unrushed unhurried holiday: a season that will strengthen us spiritually instead of draining all our joy and energy.
How can we be unrushed during such a rushed and busy time of year?
In Matthew 11: 28-30 Jesus asks us to be unhurried with him.
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
In Mark 4:9 and Matthew 11:15 He tells us toslow down and listen… Whoever has ears to hear, listen…“And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”
In Matthew 6:27 He tells us to calm down our thoughts… “Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
In Mark 4:39 he tells us Peace! Be still…”And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”
In Luke 10 He tells us to stop our busy work to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His words…Luke 10:40-42 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
The Lord Jesus lived by his own teaching: he was never in a hurry except to go the cross and die for us! Mark 10:32 and Luke 19:28 tell us that When His Father said it was time he turned and headed straight for Jerusalem, leading his disciples with great resolve.
If we stay yoked to Christ then our only hurry will be to listen to God and obey him
We all want to be unrushed and enjoy the holidays in God’s presence. How can we do this?
“Abide” in God’s blessing by repeating Jesus’ words, “Peace… Be still…”
Pray “Peace Be still” over your calendar.
Pray “Peace Be still” over something you’re stressed about.
Pray “Peace Be still” for a loved one.
Pray “Peace Be still” over situations that you feel rushed.
Pray “Peace Be still” in your life and in your heart.
The parties and wrapping and baking can wait while we stop hurrying to be present with the One whom the holiday is really about.
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Looking Joli Good 