Cake Mix Cookies are one of the easiest and most foolproof cookie recipes you can make. With just a few basic ingredients and no complicated baking techniques, this recipe consistently delivers soft, chewy cookies that taste homemade and comforting. By using boxed cake mix as the base, you eliminate multiple measuring steps while still achieving excellent texture and flavor.
This recipe is especially popular with beginner bakers, busy families, and anyone looking for a quick dessert without sacrificing quality. Cake Mix Cookies are highly customizable, making them suitable for holidays, bake sales, parties, or everyday snacking. Whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla, lemon, red velvet, or funfetti, the same simple method applies.
In this SEO-friendly guide, you’ll find a clear introduction, accurate ingredient measurements, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, variations, serving ideas, storage advice, and a complete Recipe Schema (JSON-LD) ready for publication.
Ingredients
This recipe yields approximately 22–24 cookies, depending on size.
Core Ingredients
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1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) cake mix
(vanilla, yellow, chocolate, lemon, red velvet, or any preferred flavor) -
2 large eggs, at room temperature
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½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or canola oil
Optional Add-Ins
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¾ cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
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½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
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½ cup sprinkles
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½ cup crushed cookies or candy pieces
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and oil. Stir until a thick, smooth dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is normal.
Do not overmix. Stop as soon as all ingredients are fully combined to keep the cookies soft.
Step 3: Add Optional Mix-Ins
If using chocolate chips, nuts, or other add-ins, gently fold them into the dough until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Portion the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, scoop dough into balls about 1½ tablespoons each. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
For slightly flatter cookies, lightly press the tops of the dough balls with your hand.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 9–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up while cooling.
Step 6: Cool
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Cake Mix Cookies
Choose the Right Cake Mix Size
Standard cake mix boxes weigh between 15 and 16 ounces. Using significantly different sizes may affect texture and consistency.
Oil vs. Butter
Oil creates a softer, chewier cookie. Melted butter can be substituted in equal amounts for richer flavor, but cookies may spread more.
Chill for Thicker Cookies
If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking.
Watch the Baking Time
Slightly underbaked cookies result in the best texture. Remove them from the oven when the centers still look soft.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies
Use chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, double-chocolate cookie.
Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Use lemon cake mix and add lemon zest. Once baked, lightly dust with powdered sugar for a fresh, bakery-style finish.
Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies
Use confetti cake mix and add extra sprinkles for colorful, festive cookies ideal for celebrations.
Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies
Use red velvet cake mix with white chocolate chips for a striking and indulgent cookie.
Spice Cake Mix Cookies
Use spice cake mix and add chopped nuts or raisins for a warm, seasonal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cake Mix Cookies are versatile and easy to serve:
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Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or tea
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Serve with coffee or hot chocolate
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Use as the base for cookie ice cream sandwiches
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Arrange on dessert trays for parties and holidays
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Package as edible gifts for special occasions
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Baked Cookies
Freeze cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Freezing Cookie Dough
Scoop dough into balls and freeze until solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
Optional Recipe Information Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 9–12 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Yield | 22–24 cookies |
| Difficulty | Easy |