Cake Mix Cookies

There’s something magical about cookies—they’re simple, comforting, and can turn any ordinary day into a little celebration. But let’s be honest, not all cookie recipes are made equal. Some require hours of chilling dough, precise creaming techniques, or a laundry list of ingredients you may not even have in your pantry. That’s where Cake Mix Cookies come in. With just three base ingredients and your favorite mix-ins, these cookies are incredibly easy, irresistibly soft, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a last-minute dessert, or just because, this recipe is your new go-to.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What makes these cookies truly special is their simplicity. They’re fast, forgiving, and versatile. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your recipe arsenal:

• Three-ingredient base: Cake mix, butter (or oil), and eggs create the perfect dough every time.
• No chilling required: Say goodbye to waiting hours before baking. These cookies go straight from mixing bowl to oven.
• Customizable mix-ins: Chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, dried fruit—the possibilities are endless.
• Soft, tender texture: Thanks to the cake mix base, the cookies are tender with just the right amount of chew.
• Quick baking time: In just about 10 minutes, you’ll have warm cookies ready to enjoy.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make Cake Mix Cookies. This recipe yields about 22 cookies, depending on how large you make them.

Cookie Dough Base:

• 1 (15.25-ounce) box cake mix (any flavor of your choice)
• 1/2 cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
• 2 large eggs

Mix-Ins (optional, choose 1 cup total):

• Chocolate chips
• White chocolate chunks
• Sprinkles
• Nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
• Dried fruit (cranberries, cherries, raisins)
• Candy pieces (M&Ms, Reese’s pieces)

Tip: Feel free to mix and match flavors! A chocolate cake mix with peanut butter chips is heavenly, while a vanilla cake mix with sprinkles creates a fun, party-ready cookie.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make these cookies, you won’t need anything fancy. Here’s a list of what will make the process seamless:

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional, you can also stir by hand)
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet(s)
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Cookie scoop (optional, for uniform cookies)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for perfect cookies every time:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (176°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to scoop.

3. Add Your Mix-Ins

Gently fold in 1 cup of your chosen mix-ins. Be creative! Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cookies dense.

4. Scoop the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. This allows the cookies to spread evenly without merging.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the cookies are set. Cake mix cookies should be slightly soft in the center—remember, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

6. Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to finish cooling. Warm cookies are soft, chewy, and irresistible, but allow them to cool slightly for easier handling.

Tips & Variations

One of the best things about Cake Mix Cookies is how flexible they are. Here are some ideas to make them uniquely yours:

• Vegan option: Use a dairy-free cake mix, plant-based butter, and flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to cater to dietary needs.
• Adjusting sweetness: Swap half the butter for unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
• Seasonal mix-ins: Try pumpkin seeds and cinnamon chips in fall or dried cherries and white chocolate for the holidays.
• Flavor combos: Chocolate cake + peanut butter chips, vanilla cake + rainbow sprinkles, or red velvet cake + cream cheese chips are crowd-pleasers.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Cake Mix Cookies are soft, sweet, and tender with a rich buttery undertone. The exact flavor will vary depending on the cake mix and mix-ins you choose. The texture is slightly cakey but still chewy, making them a perfect treat for any cookie lover.

Suggested Side Dishes

Pair with a glass of milk or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also work well with fresh fruit for a slightly lighter treat.

Nutritional Overview (Per Cookie)

Here’s a rough breakdown per cookie (based on 22 cookies with no mix-ins):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	103 kcal
Protein	1.4 g
Carbohydrates	8.2 g
Sugar	6.7 g
Fat	7.7 g
Cholesterol	28 mg
Sodium	20.2 mg
Fiber	<1 g

Note: Adding chocolate chips or nuts will slightly increase calories and fat.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

Cake Mix Cookies are ideal for meal prep and make-ahead baking:

• Prepare dough ahead: Make the dough and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Scoop and bake as needed.
• Bake and freeze: Bake cookies fully, then freeze cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Batch baking: Double the recipe for parties or cookie exchanges. Cookies freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy them anytime.

FAQs

1. Can I use different cake mix flavors?
Absolutely! Vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, lemon, or funfetti—any flavor works. Each flavor gives a unique twist.

2. Do I have to use butter?
Nope! Vegetable oil works as well, though butter gives a richer flavor. You can even try coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist.

3. Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?
Yes! Just adjust baking time slightly. Smaller cookies need 8–9 minutes, while larger cookies may take 12–13 minutes.

4. Are these cookies cakey or chewy?
They’re a soft, tender cookie with a slightly cakey texture thanks to the cake mix. Adding more mix-ins can make them slightly chewier.

5. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze the scooped dough on a baking sheet, then transfer to a storage bag once firm. Bake directly from frozen—add a minute or two to baking time.

6. How long do they last at room temperature?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container. They’re best within 3–4 days.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep	15 minutes
Baking	9–11 minutes
Cooling	5–10 minutes
Total Time	24 minutes

Serving Suggestions

For the perfect presentation:

• Serve on a tiered cookie platter for parties.
• Add a light dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch.
• Stack cookies in a jar or tin for gifting—they stay fresh and look beautiful.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few creative twists on the classic cake mix cookie:

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl: Chocolate cake mix + peanut butter chips + a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top.
2. Birthday Funfetti: Vanilla cake mix + rainbow sprinkles + white chocolate chips. Perfect for kids’ parties.
3. Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies: Red velvet cake mix + cream cheese chunks + chocolate chips.
4. Nutty Chocolate Delight: Chocolate cake mix + chopped walnuts + dark chocolate chunks.

These variations show how versatile this base recipe really is—you can make it fit any occasion or craving.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cake Mix

Using a high-quality cake mix ensures a tender, flavorful cookie. You can go classic with chocolate or vanilla, or experiment with seasonal flavors like spice or pumpkin. Store in a cool, dry place and use before the expiration date for best results.

Butter

Butter adds richness and depth of flavor. For a slightly lighter option, vegetable oil works well, while coconut oil adds subtle aroma. Melt before mixing to ensure it blends seamlessly with the eggs and cake mix.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overmix: Once the eggs and butter are added, mix until just combined to avoid dense cookies.
• Uniform cookies: Use a cookie scoop for even sizes; this ensures consistent baking.
• Cool on the sheet: Let cookies rest for a couple of minutes before transferring—they finish setting on the baking sheet.
• Mix-in balance: Too many mix-ins can make the cookies spread unevenly. Stick to about 1 cup per batch.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Bake, cool, and freeze in a single layer on a tray. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag once firm. Store up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Let cookies sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes or warm in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for a few minutes.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	103 kcal
Protein	1.4 g
Carbohydrates	8.2 g
Sugar	6.7 g
Fat	7.7 g
Fiber	<1 g
Cholesterol	28 mg
Sodium	20.2 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, nut-free if no nuts are added, and adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets with substitutions.

Expanded Conclusion

These Cake Mix Cookies are a game-changer for home bakers. With a base of just three ingredients and endless mix-in possibilities, they’re quick, easy, and sure to impress. Perfect for busy weeknights, festive gatherings, or an afternoon snack, this recipe is proof that sometimes the simplest desserts are the most delicious.

Don’t hesitate—grab your favorite cake mix, melt some butter, and start experimenting with mix-ins today. Once you try these cookies, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire. Share them with friends, gift them in jars, or savor them all yourself. The best part? There’s no wrong way to enjoy them!

Bake, mix, and enjoy—these cookies are as flexible and fun as your creativity allows. Happy baking!

Print