Cake mix cookies are a fantastic, easy treat that comes together in a flash. They start with a simple box of cake mix, which gives the cookies a soft, tender texture and a burst of flavor right from the start. You can find them in all sorts of flavors, like chocolate, vanilla, or even funfetti—each one turning out chewy and delicious every time.
I love how cake mix cookies let me whip up a batch without having to measure out a bunch of ingredients. I usually add just a couple of extras, like eggs and some butter or oil, to make the dough just right. Sometimes, I throw in chocolate chips or nuts to add a little crunch and extra yum. These cookies feel like a fun shortcut that still tastes homemade.
Whenever I make cake mix cookies, I like to bake them until the edges are just set but the centers stay soft. They’re so perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a glass of milk on a quiet afternoon. Plus, they’re great for last-minute dessert needs because they bake quickly and taste like you spent all day making them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: This is the star of the show. I prefer vanilla or funfetti for colorful, soft cookies. If you want a chocolate version, use chocolate cake mix for a richer taste.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the dough. For an egg-free option, try flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and let it rest before mixing.
Oil or Butter: Vegetable oil keeps cookies soft and moist. Melted butter adds a richer flavor and slightly denser texture. I like using butter for that classic cookie taste.
Sprinkles: Rainbow sprinkles add fun colors and a bit of crunch. If you don’t have sprinkles, mini chocolate chips or crushed nuts work well too.
How Do You Get Soft, Tender Cake Mix Cookies Every Time?
The key to soft cake mix cookies is not overbaking. Here’s what I do:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheet so cookies don’t stick.
- Mix until ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough.
- Scoop dough balls about 1.5 tablespoons each and space them well to avoid sticking.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges look set but centers stay a bit soft; they’ll firm up while cooling.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a rack to keep their soft texture.
These steps help keep your cookies soft, colorful, and perfectly tender every time. I love that they’re easy and quick for last-minute snacks or parties!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to stir all ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your eggs, oil, and sprinkles just right.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for easy mixing of the dough.
- Baking sheet – a flat tray to oven-bake your cookies evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Scoop or spoon – to portion cookie dough evenly for uniform cookies.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool down without getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate cake mix with mini chocolate chips – for a rich, double-chocolate treat.
- Lemon cake mix with white chocolate chips – adds a bright, fresh twist.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts – gives a nice crunch to soft cookies.
- Fold in shredded coconut – for a sweet, chewy texture and tropical flavor.
How to Make Cake Mix Cookies with Sprinkles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cookie Dough:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or funfetti cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 to 1 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 9-11 minutes to bake. Plus, allow an extra 5 minutes for cooling. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious cookies in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven and Baking Sheet Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Mix until you get a soft, smooth dough.
3. Add Sprinkles and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles and mini chocolate chips, mixing just enough to spread them throughout the dough without overmixing.
4. Shape the Cookies
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto your baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few extra sprinkles on top of each dough ball to make them look extra festive.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9-11 minutes. They’re done when the edges look set but the centers still feel soft. This keeps them tender and chewy.
6. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes — this helps them firm up but stay soft inside. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, they’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?
Absolutely! Chocolate, lemon, or red velvet cake mixes all work well. Just keep in mind the flavor will change accordingly.
Can I Substitute Oil with Butter?
Yes, melted butter adds a richer taste and slightly denser texture. Use the same amount as the oil called for in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake Mix Cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them well wrapped for up to 2 months.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or shredded coconut are great choices. Just fold them in gently with the sprinkles before baking.