How to Make Decadent Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
• Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract until fully combined.
• Gradually fold in the cake mix until just combined; the dough should be thick.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes.
• Pour the powdered sugar into a shallow bowl.
• Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls, then roll each ball in powdered sugar.
• Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, until slightly cracked on top and edges are set.
• Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
• Sprinkle with festive decorations if desired.