Ingredients:
For the Gob Cookies (Cake Mix Shortcut):
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor: chocolate, banana, orange, white, etc.)
- 2 eggs (omit one egg from box instructions)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil and water as directed on cake mix box
- Optional:
- Banana extract (for banana gobs)
- Orange zest or extract (for orange gobs)
- Sprinkles (for white gobs, before baking or for topping)
For the Old-Fashioned Cooked Frosting (Filling):
- 1 cup whole milk
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening (like Crisco)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or add it to milk mixture while cooking)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Make the Gob Cookie Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, 1 cup flour, 2 eggs (or one if the box calls for three), oil, and water according to the cake mix box.
- Mix until smooth. If making banana gobs, add a few drops of banana extract. For orange flavor, add orange zest or extract.
- Drop heaping spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet, leaving space between each for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
- Bake until tops are set and bounce back when lightly pressed with your finger (usually 8–10 minutes, but check often—no need to time if you go by feel!).
- Cool the Cookies:
- Let cookies cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting Filling:
- In a small saucepan, whisk the milk and flour together. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick like pudding or custard. This takes about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat together butter and shortening until fluffy.
- Add sugar and beat well. (Tip: If you don’t want a gritty texture, add the sugar to the milk/flour while cooking instead.)
- Stir in the vanilla.
- Add the completely cooled milk/flour mixture. Beat until light, fluffy, and smooth. This can take several minutes—don’t rush it!
- Assemble the Gobs:
- Pair similar-sized cookies together.
- Spread or pipe a generous amount of frosting on one cookie, then top with its pair.
- If desired, roll the edges in sprinkles or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Nutritional Information:
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Baking Time: ~10 minutes per batch | Total Time: ~1 hour
Calories per gob (approx): 350–400 | Makes: About 18–24 gob sandwiches (depends on size)