Cake Mix Cookies are a revelation in simplicity and flavor, requiring just FIVE ingredients and a single bowl! This recipe is your secret weapon for quick, delicious treats that come together in a flash.

Keep this versatile recipe in your culinary arsenal and effortlessly swap the cake mix for any flavor your heart desires – chocolate, vanilla, lemon, red velvet, Funfetti, or even Oreo. Elevate them further by adding chocolate chips for a classic touch or exploring our Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies for an extra layer of decadence.

The Ultimate Guide to Easy Cake Mix Cookies

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated, and these cake mix cookies are living proof. Imagine soft, chewy, and perfectly flavorful cookies with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a quick fix or a beginner eager to impress, this recipe for cake mix cookies is your gateway to baking success. It’s a delightful shortcut that transforms a pantry staple into an extraordinary homemade treat, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients yield the most satisfying results.

What Exactly Are Cake Mix Cookies, and Why Are They So Popular?

Cake mix cookies are precisely what they sound like: delicious cookies made using a boxed cake mix as their primary dry ingredient, rather than a traditional blend of flour, sugar, and leavening agents. This ingenious method significantly streamlines the baking process because the cake mix already contains most of the dry components needed for baking, including flour, sugar, baking powder, and sometimes even flavorings. This convenience is a major reason behind their soaring popularity.

The beauty of cake mix cookies lies in their simplicity and the consistently fantastic results they deliver. By adding just a few wet ingredients—typically pudding mix, eggs, and butter—you create a wonderfully pliable dough that bakes into soft, chewy, and incredibly versatile cookies. They emerge from the oven with a delightful texture and a rich flavor that often surprises those who are new to this baking hack. Beyond their ease, they offer an endless canvas for customization, allowing bakers to experiment with various cake mix flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, making every batch a unique experience.

Easy Cake Mix Cookie Recipe: Your Go-To for Quick Treats

Over the years, the versatility of cake mix has inspired numerous recipes, from fluffy cake mix cupcakes to seasonal pumpkin cake mix cookies, and even fun concoctions like cake batter popcorn. However, these basic cake mix cookies might just be the most straightforward and satisfying recipe yet—a true “piece of cake” in the culinary world!

This recipe requires only five simple ingredients, all mixed together in a single bowl, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your enjoyment. While we’re highlighting the festive Funfetti flavor today, the possibilities for making cake mix cookies are virtually endless. You can easily switch up the cake mix flavor, incorporate different fillings, experiment with various frostings, or even transform them into adorable whoopie pies! In fact, after seeing the overwhelming love for our Oreo whoopie pies, we’ve included instructions here for creating a delightful Funfetti version.

Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Cake Mix Cookies

Crafting these delectable cookies requires a short list of accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Pay close attention to the details to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Cake Mix: The star of our recipe! Ensure you grab a standard 14.25-ounce package for optimal results. It’s vital to disregard the instructions on the cake mix box itself; we’re using it in a completely different way for cookies. Any flavor works, from classic vanilla to adventurous red velvet.
• Pudding Mix: This is the secret to exceptionally moist and chewy cookies. Be sure to use instant pudding mix (not the “cook and serve” variety) and avoid sugar-free or reduced-calorie options, as they can alter the cookie’s texture. A 3.4-ounce package is ideal. Vanilla pudding is a great all-rounder, but feel free to match the pudding flavor to your cake mix for an intensified taste.
• Eggs: Large eggs are essential for proper binding and structure in the cookie dough. They help bring all the ingredients together, creating a cohesive and easy-to-handle mixture.
• Butter: Always use unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. This is crucial for easy mixing and achieving a smooth, even dough. Melted butter will yield a flatter, greasier cookie, so avoid melting it.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of your cookies, adding a warm, aromatic note. If you don’t have it on hand, you can omit it, but it truly elevates the taste.
• Sprinkles (optional for Funfetti version): For a festive touch, especially with Funfetti cake mix, jimmie sprinkles work best. Their shape helps them maintain their color and integrity during mixing and baking. Nonpareils can sometimes bleed color into the dough, so stick with jimmies for vibrant results. Gently fold them in to prevent excessive color bleeding.

How to Make the Perfect Cake Mix Cookies: Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to create irresistible cake mix cookies with ease:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the full package of cake mix, instant pudding mix, softened butter, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together on medium speed until a very thick, cohesive dough forms. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. If you’re adding any mix-ins like sprinkles or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough until evenly distributed.
2. Chill and Shape the Dough: Once your dough is ready, scoop it into uniform balls, roughly 1½ tablespoons each (about 30 grams). Rolling them into consistent sizes helps ensure even baking. Place the dough balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. This crucial step prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, helping them maintain a thicker, chewier, and puffier texture.
3. Bake to Golden Perfection: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the chilled dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 9–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and set, but the centers still appear slightly soft.
4. Cooling: The secret to perfectly soft cookies is not to overbake them. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the hot baking sheet for 5 minutes. This residual heat will continue to cook them slightly without drying them out. After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy and ensures a crisp edge with a soft center. Repeat the baking process with any remaining dough.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cake Mix Cookies Every Time

Achieving bakery-quality cake mix cookies is easy with a few expert tips:

1. Avoid Over-mixing: Once your ingredients are just combined and a dough has formed, stop mixing. Over-mixing can develop the gluten in the flour (from the cake mix), leading to tough, dense cookies instead of the soft, tender ones you desire.
2. Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky to handle or you want to ensure your cookies stay thick and puffy, chilling the dough is a must. A minimum of 30 minutes in the refrigerator will firm it up, making it easier to roll and preventing excessive spreading during baking.
3. Ensure Uniform Size: For consistently baked cookies, aim for uniform dough balls. Using a cookie scoop is the easiest way to achieve this. Alternatively, you can measure out each dough portion on a food scale. Evenly sized cookies bake at the same rate, preventing some from being underbaked while others are overbaked.
4. Monitor Baking Time Closely: Oven temperatures can vary significantly, so the baking time is often an approximation. Keep a close eye on your cookies, especially during their first batch. They are perfectly done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the centers still look slightly soft. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool.
5. Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking, ensures even browning, and makes cleanup a breeze.
6. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to emulsify better with the dry ingredients, resulting in a smoother dough and a more consistent cookie texture.

Cake Mix Cookies Variations: Endless Flavor Possibilities

One of the most exciting aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can truly make these cookies your own by experimenting with different cake mix flavors and mix-ins. Here are some popular variations to inspire your next baking adventure. Feel free to add your favorite extras or even dip the baked cookies in melted white or milk chocolate for an extra treat!

• Red Velvet White Chocolate Chip: Combine a rich red velvet cake mix with vanilla pudding and generous handfuls of white chocolate chips for a luxurious, colorful cookie.
• M&M Mania: Stir vibrant M&M candies into classic yellow or vanilla cake mix cookies for a fun, colorful, and chocolatey treat perfect for any occasion.
• Decadent Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies: For the ultimate chocolate lover, use chocolate cake mix, pair it with chocolate pudding, and load them up with your favorite chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark).
• Bright Lemon Cake Mix Cookies: Zesty and refreshing, use a lemon cake mix with lemon-flavored instant pudding for a burst of citrus flavor. A lemon glaze would be a perfect finish.
• Sweet Strawberry Cookies: Opt for a strawberry cake mix and vanilla pudding, then fold in white chocolate chips for a delightful pink cookie bursting with fruity sweetness.
• Warm Spice Cookies: Perfect for fall or winter, use a spice cake mix with vanilla pudding. Enhance the festive flavors with an additional pinch of pumpkin pie spice or a dash of cinnamon.
• Custom Mix-Ins: Get creative! Stir in ½ cup of your favorite crushed or chopped additions such as nuts (walnuts, pecans), toffee bits, different types of sprinkles, crushed cookies (like Oreos or Biscoff), or even dried fruit.
• Top with Frosting: Take your cookies to the next level by topping them with a swirl of rich frosting. Classic vanilla frosting, decadent Oreo frosting, or tangy cream cheese frosting all make fantastic choices.
• Festive Christmas Cake Mix Cookies: Transform a yellow or white cake mix into holiday cheer by adding festive red and green sprinkles. These are perfect for cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings.

Make Cake Mix Cookie Whoopie Pies: A Delightful Twist!

One of our absolute favorite ways to enjoy these versatile cookies is by transforming them into soft, sandwich-style whoopie pies. The slightly cakey texture of the cookies makes them ideal for this classic treat. To create these delightful confections, simply prepare your favorite frosting (we highly recommend our cream cheese frosting recipe provided below for the ultimate pairing). Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread a dollop of frosting onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to form a delicious sandwich. For the best flavor and texture, cover your whoopie pies with plastic wrap and allow them to sit overnight in the refrigerator. This resting period allows the cookies to soften further and the flavors to meld beautifully. The next day, let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal enjoyment. Prepare for an explosion of soft, cake-like goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cake Mix Cookies

Got questions? We’ve got answers to ensure your cake mix cookie baking is a smooth and delicious experience!

Can I use any flavor of cake mix for making cookies?

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its incredible flexibility. Any cake mix flavor works wonderfully – vanilla, chocolate, Funfetti, red velvet, lemon, strawberry, and even spice cake mixes are fantastic choices. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites!

Do I need to follow the cake mix box instructions?

No, and this is a crucial point! For this cookie recipe, completely disregard the instructions printed on the cake mix box. We are transforming the mix into cookies, not cake. Only follow the specific recipe instructions provided here to achieve the perfect cookie texture.

Can I add extra ingredients or mix-ins to the dough?

Yes, please do! Adding mix-ins is a fantastic way to customize your cookies. Popular choices include chocolate chips (of any kind), chopped nuts, dried fruit, sprinkles, or even crushed candies and cookies like Oreos. A general rule of thumb is to add about ½ to 1 cup of mix-ins per standard box of cake mix.

What cake mix brand should I use?

You can use any standard cake mix from popular brands like Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, or Pillsbury. Each brand might yield a slightly different texture, but all will work. My personal all-time favorite cake mix to use for these cookies is Betty Crocker’s Super Moist mixes; they consistently produce the best results. I also have a soft spot for Pillsbury’s mixes, especially their vibrant Funfetti mix for those extra festive cookies.

My cookies spread too much. What went wrong?

Excessive spreading can often be attributed to a few factors:

• Melted or too soft butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature but still firm, not melted.
• Warm dough: Always chill your dough for at least 30-60 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape.
• Greased baking sheet: Avoid greasing your baking sheet. Instead, use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

More Easy Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

If you love the simplicity and deliciousness of these cake mix cookies, be sure to explore more of our easy dessert recipes:

• Brownie Bites made with a brownie mix for a quick chocolate fix.
• Our incredible No-Bake Brownie Batter Cheesecake Ball, perfect for parties.
• A refreshing Ice Cream Sandwich Cake that only needs 4 ingredients.
• Decadent Golden Oreo Truffles, elegantly dipped in chocolate.
• The classic, creamy Banana Pudding Recipe, a Magnolia Bakery copycat.

Cake Mix Cookies

By Chelsea Lords

Cake Mix Cookies are incredibly easy to make—just five ingredients and one bowl! Keep this recipe handy and feel free to swap the cake mix for any flavor you like—chocolate, vanilla, lemon, and more!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 26 cookies

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Equipment

• Sheet pan (15″ x 10″) lined with parchment paper or silicone mat
• Stand mixer or hand mixer

Ingredients

Cookies

• 1 (14.25-ounce) package Funfetti cake mix (or alternate flavor, see Note 1)
• 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix (see Note 2)
• 2 large eggs
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup mix-ins of choice (e.g., sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts)

Frosting (Optional, for Whoopie Pies)

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, brick-style, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Mix Dough: In a stand mixer or a large bowl with a hand mixer, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until you have a very thick dough, scraping the bowl as needed. If using mix-ins, gently fold them in.
2. Chill Dough: Roll 1½ tablespoons of dough (about 30 grams each) into balls. Chill the balls for 30–60 minutes to help them stay puffy during baking.
3. Bake Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the sheet. Bake for 9–10 minutes until bottoms are slightly browned and edges are set, but the middle still looks a bit soft. Do not overbake. Let cookies rest on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a cooling rack. Repeat with remaining dough.
4. Prepare Frosting (Optional): Soften the cream cheese in the microwave using 15–20 second bursts until room temperature. In a mixer, cream the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Mix in vanilla and salt. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy. For thicker frosting, add an extra ¼ cup of powdered sugar. Chill the frosting for 20–30 minutes to firm up slightly.
5. Assemble Whoopie Pies (Optional): Once cookies are completely cool, transfer frosting to a piping bag with a wide tip or use a knife. Pipe frosting on the flat side of one cookie and gently sandwich with another. Repeat with all cookies. Cover whoopie pies with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow them to soften. The next day, let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Cake Mix Selection
Betty Crocker Super Moist cake mixes are my favorites for this recipe due to their consistent results! I also love Pillsbury Funfetti for a festive touch. Use whatever flavor you’re craving, but always ensure it’s a standard 14.25-ounce box and remember to ignore the box instructions! You can add ½ to 1 cup of various mix-ins like sprinkles, chopped Oreos, nuts, or chocolate chips.

Note 2: Pudding Mix Type
It is essential to use instant pudding mix, not “cook and serve” pudding mix, as the textures will be vastly different. Also, avoid sugar-free or reduced-calorie puddings, as they can alter the final cookie texture. Ensure you use a 3.4-ounce box. Generally, chocolate pudding pairs well with chocolate cake mix, while vanilla pudding is versatile enough for most other cake mix flavors.

Storage:
Store baked cookies in a tightly sealed container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, it’s best to freeze the unbaked cookie dough instead of baked cookies. Roll dough into balls, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. You can bake the dough directly from the freezer; just add 1–3 minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 cookie | Calories: 110 kcal | Carbohydrates: 17.2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5.7g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 151.6mg | Sugar: 12g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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