Cake mix cookies are a quick and fun way to bake up soft, chewy cookies with minimal effort. Using just a box of cake mix as the base, these cookies come out tender and flavorful, with a light crumb that’s a little different from traditional cookie recipes. You can often add simple extras like chocolate chips or nuts to give them a little extra character.
I love making cake mix cookies when I need a fast treat without pulling out a dozen ingredients. The mix already has so much flavor and sweetness built in, so it feels like a little cheat that still tastes homemade. Sometimes, I like to roll them in sugar before baking for a nice, slight crunch on the outside.
These cookies are perfect for packing in lunchboxes or sharing with friends because they stay soft for a few days and don’t take long to make at all. Whenever I bring them to gatherings, people always ask for the recipe, which is probably why I keep coming back to this easy and delicious little baked gem.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: The star of this recipe! I recommend funfetti for a colorful treat, but any flavor works well. If you want less sugar, try a sugar-free or low-sugar cake mix.
Eggs: Eggs bind everything together and add moisture. For a vegan option, try flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Oil or Butter: Both give richness and help with cookie texture. Vegetable oil is neutral, but melted butter adds more flavor if you like buttery cookies.
Add-ins: Chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles personalize the cookies. I often add chocolate chips for extra texture and taste, but feel free to go wild with your favorites!
How Do I Get Cake Mix Cookies Soft but Set?
The key is timing and gentle mixing. Overbaking can dry out the cookies, so watch the oven closely.
- Mix ingredients until just combined; avoid over stirring.
- Drop dough balls spaced well apart since they spread.
- Bake 8-10 minutes until edges look set but centers still soft and cracks appear on top.
- Let cookies rest on the baking sheet to finish cooking gently before moving.
This approach keeps cookies soft inside with a slight crisp edge—my favorite texture for cake mix cookies!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – They give your cookies a flat surface to bake evenly and crisp just right on the edges.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – These prevent sticking and make cleanup super easy.
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl helps you mix the cake mix and other ingredients without making a mess.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – Using a cookie scoop helps keep your cookies the same size so they bake evenly.
- Wire cooling rack – It cools cookies quickly and keeps them from getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sprinkles for mini chocolate chips if you want a classic chocolate chip cookie twist that’s still soft and colorful.
- Add ½ cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Mix in ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice note, especially great with vanilla or spice cake mix.
- Try white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for a sweet and tart combo that feels festive.
How to Make Cake Mix Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz) cake mix (any flavor; funfetti is popular)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips or sprinkles (optional)
- Coarse sugar or sprinkles for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8–10 minutes to bake. Plus, allow an extra 5 minutes for cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Altogether, about 20–25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheets:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, add the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil or melted butter. Stir together until the dough is smooth and fully combined. If you want to add chocolate chips or sprinkles, fold them in gently now.
3. Shape and Bake the Cookies:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space each ball about 2 inches apart to give the cookies room to spread. If you like, sprinkle coarse sugar or extra sprinkles on top for a little sparkle and crunch.
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges look set and the tops have cracks and are slightly firm.
4. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or room temperature with your favorite drink!
Can I Use a Different Type of Oil Instead of Vegetable Oil?
Yes! You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, canola oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
Can I Make Cake Mix Cookies Without Eggs?
Absolutely! For an egg-free version, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer. Mix and let it sit for a few minutes before adding to the dough.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cake mix cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft longer, place a slice of bread in the container, which helps retain moisture.
Can I Freeze Cake Mix Cookie Dough or Baked Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
