Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) White or Yellow Cake Mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 8 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp holiday-colored sprinkles
  • 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg in a large bowl. Stir until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Note: Don't overmix or the cookies might become tough.
  2. Roll the dough into 24 small balls and place them on a parchment lined baking sheet.
  3. Press a small indentation into the center of each ball with your thumb. Note: This creates a nest to hold the filling.
  4. Beat the softened cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until velvety and smooth.
  5. Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each cookie indentation.
  6. Top the cream cheese center with holiday colored sprinkles.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until the edges are pale golden brown but the centers remain soft and slightly jiggly.
  8. Remove from the oven immediately and allow cookies to cool for 60 minutes. Note: This is the most critical step for the texture.