Cake mix cookies have become one of my go-to treats when I want something both simple and delicious. It all started when my oldest asked for a quick dessert after school, something easy but still warm from the oven. I hadn’t made cake mix cookies in a while, but I remembered how they always brought a crowd to the table. As soon as the cookies cooled, the entire family gathered in the kitchen, trading bites and smiles. That moment reminded me why cake mix cookies became a staple in our household.
Getting the recipe just right took a few tries. Early on, I found some batches were too dry, and others spread too thin. But after tweaking the ingredients, I now have homemade cake mix cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. They’re easy cake mix cookies anyone can make, even when the day is hectic or you need a reliable treat for unexpected guests.
If you’re looking for a reliable dessert that feels special but doesn’t mean hours in the kitchen, this cake mix cookie recipe is a winner. It brings people together in a sweet, relaxed way—whether you’re wrapping up a busy night or celebrating a small family moment. I invite you to give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite in your household too.
What’s great about cake mix cookies is how versatile they are. I’ve found so many cake mix cookie variations by just swapping mix flavors or adding simple extras like chocolate chips or nuts. If your family is anything like mine, you’ll love the way they bring everyone around the table without any stress.
For more ideas to pair or try alongside your cake mix cookies, check out some other sweet family favorites like these gingerbread crinkle cookies or strawberry crunch cookies. You might also enjoy these lemon marbled cheesecake bars for when you want something a bit different with a similar easy-to-love vibe.
What You’ll Need
For this cake mix cookies recipe, here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) of cake mix (I like using yellow or vanilla for soft cake mix cookies, but chocolate or funfetti works great too)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (gives that perfect soft texture)
- 1 cup mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or candies (optional but highly recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (helps with just the right rise)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (boosts flavor, my family loves this in the cake mix cookies)
You’ll find all these ingredients at your local grocery store, often right next to the baking aisle. For homemade cake mix cookies that taste like they took longer to make, focus on good-quality mix and fresh eggs. That little vanilla extract step is a secret I use to amp up the flavor without extra fuss.
If you need to swap anything out, these cake mix cookies are pretty forgiving. Can’t find vegetable oil? Use melted butter or even coconut oil for a twist. Want to lighten it up? Try substituting half the oil with applesauce, and your cake mix cookies will still turn out soft and tasty. Feel free to adjust mix-ins based on what your family loves—my crew enjoys peanut butter chips and walnuts as a favorite.
Before starting, I always recommend preheating your oven and lining your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy clean-up. This small step makes baking cake mix cookies easier and mess-free, so you can focus on taste and fun.
Trust me, this cake mix cookies ingredient list keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor, and anyone can pull it together in no time.
How to Make It
Making cake mix cookies is honestly one of the easiest baking wins you’ll have, even if you’re short on time or baking confidence. Here’s how I make my go-to homemade cake mix cookies step-by-step:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature works well for soft cake mix cookies that aren’t too crunchy.
- Mix together your dry ingredients in a large bowl—start with your cake mix and baking soda. This combination brings out the best texture.
- Add eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir gently but thoroughly so you don’t overmix. Your batter should be thick but scoopable—that’s perfect for cake mix cookies.
- Fold in your chosen mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, candies). This adds fun and texture, making your cake mix cookie recipe feel more homemade and special.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough on your parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. The dough is a bit stickier than traditional cookie dough, so I often use a cookie scoop for ease.
- Bake the cake mix cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges look set, but the centers are still slightly soft. Don’t overbake if you want those soft cake mix cookies everyone raves about.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps prevent breaking and keeps that tender texture intact.
I used to mess up my cake mix cookies by baking too long or using too much oil, but now I always remember to watch the edges closely as they set. While your cake mix cookies are baking, the kitchen fills with a cozy aroma that makes it hard to wait.
These cake mix cookies usually take me about 20 minutes start to finish, which is perfect for a quick dessert after dinner or a weekend baking session with the kids.
If you want some inspiration on different cake mix cookie variations, this Cake Mix Cookies Recipe on AllRecipes shows some tasty spins you might enjoy. And for a simple three-ingredient version, I love what I Heart Naptime shares for an ultra-fast treat.
Serving Ideas
My family loves digging into these cake mix cookies warm from the oven, sometimes with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s such an easy treat that truly feels special.
Cake mix cookies are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a sweet finish with minimal fuss. They also shine at celebrations like birthday parties or holiday gatherings, especially when you swap up mix-ins for colors or flavors that match the occasion.
I like to arrange cake mix cookies on a pretty plate or in small paper cupcake liners for a simple but inviting presentation. It makes the treat feel more festive without extra work.
If you have leftovers (which is rare at my house), store cake mix cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and fresh for several days. You can also freeze the baked cookies wrapped tightly and thaw them gently to enjoy later.
For variations, try adding peppermint chips around winter holidays or chopped dried fruit for a chewy twist. My kids once asked for sprinkles mixed in for a funfetti-style cake mix cookies batch that was a huge hit.
If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy these flavorful gingerbread crinkle cookies or the refreshing strawberry crunch cookies I’ve shared before.
Your Questions Answered
I often get questions about cake mix cookies from home cooks just starting out or looking to improve their recipe. Here are some answers that might help you too:
Can I make this cake mix cookies ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This actually helps the flavors blend better, and you’ll still get soft cake mix cookies.
What if I don’t have vegetable oil?
You can substitute melted butter or coconut oil in equal amounts. Both add a nice flavor and keep your homemade cake mix cookies soft.
How should I store leftover cake mix cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
What if my cake mix cookies spread too much?
Make sure your dough isn’t too warm when you bake. Sometimes chilling the dough for 15 minutes helps keep the cookies from spreading too thin.
Can I use any cake mix flavor?
Yes! Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, even red velvet mix all work well and change the flavor of your cake mix cookies.
Are these cake mix cookies gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free cake mix, then yes. Just double-check your mix-ins for gluten content.
How do I get soft cake mix cookies instead of crispy?
Don’t overbake. Remove the cookies when edges are set but centers are still soft, then let them cool on the cookie sheet.
If you want visual help or more variations, this video from TidyMom® on easy cookie recipe using any cake mix flavor is a really friendly guide.
The Final Word
This cake mix cookies recipe has earned a permanent spot in my family’s recipe box because it’s easy, forgiving, and always delights everyone who tries it. Whether you stick with the classic version or try fun cake mix cookie variations, this recipe fits right in with busy family life and keeps the kitchen full of warmth.
My Cake Mix Cookies Tips:
- Always watch the baking time closely for soft results
- Use vanilla extract to boost flavor in simple recipes
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with different mix-ins to find your family’s favorite
I’ve tried versions with chocolate chips, nuts, peanut butter chips, and red velvet cake mix—each one finds a fan in my household. My kids love the funfetti style best, while my husband prefers the chocolate mix with extra chips.
Making this cake mix cookies your own is part of the joy. I hope you find the same comfort and togetherness we’ve enjoyed with it.
If you’re looking for related recipes filled with family-friendly goodness, don’t miss the sweet gingerbread crinkle cookies, strawberry crunch cookies, and refreshing lemon marbled cheesecake bars all linked for you here.
Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure your family will ask for it again and again. Making cake mix cookies is a simple way to bring a little extra joy to your table. Happy baking!
Cake Mix Cookies
Deliciously soft and easy-to-make Cake Mix Cookies that combine the convenience of cake mix with classic cookie texture, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake mix (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- If desired, fold in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the cookies are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a fun twist, try adding nuts or white chocolate chips to the dough for extra texture and flavor.