Cake mix cookies are a quick and fun way to bake delicious treats without the fuss of measuring out lots of ingredients. All you need is a box of cake mix, some eggs, and a bit of oil or butter, and you’re ready to go. These cookies come out soft, cakey, and perfect for whenever you want a sweet snack fast.
I love making cake mix cookies because they’re so easy and forgiving. You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to make them your own, which always makes me feel like I’m creating something special. Plus, they bake up so fluffy and soft that they almost feel like little cake bites rather than typical cookies.
My favorite way to enjoy these cookies is fresh from the oven with a glass of cold milk, but they also hold up well if you want to pack some for a lunchbox or share with friends. It’s a simple recipe that never fails to bring smiles, and I always keep a box of cake mix handy just in case a sweet craving strikes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: The base of these cookies is any white or yellow cake mix. If you want a different flavor, feel free to swap with chocolate or funfetti cake mix for a fun twist. Gluten-free cake mixes work well too for sensitive diets.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the cookie dough and give structure. For an egg-free option, you can use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or applesauce, though texture might be slightly different.
Oil or Butter: Vegetable oil keeps the cookies moist and soft. Melted butter adds richer flavor but can make them a bit denser. Either works, so use what you prefer or have on hand.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional but adds nice depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, the cookies will still taste great.
Sprinkles: Rainbow sprinkles give that colorful, fun look. You can switch to chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or dried fruit based on your taste or dietary needs.
How Do You Keep Cake Mix Cookies Soft and Cakey?
The secret to these cookies’ softness lies in the right balance of cake mix, eggs, and oil. The oil keeps them moist, while the eggs add structure without making them dry.
- Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid dense cookies.
- Don’t overbake! Pull the cookies from the oven when the edges look set but the middle is still slightly soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Cooling on the baking sheet helps them finish baking gently and stay soft inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to blend all your ingredients easily without spills.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing the batter gently to keep it light and fluffy.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – helps you make evenly sized cookies for even baking.
- Baking sheets – flat and sturdy to hold cookies without warping in the oven.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Wire cooling rack – lets your cookies cool evenly without getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chocolate cake mix with mini chocolate chips for a rich double-chocolate treat.
- Add ½ cup chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Mix in ½ cup peanut butter chips or butterscotch chips to change the cookie’s flavor profile.
- Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for warm, cozy notes perfect in fall.
How to Make Cake Mix Cookies with Sprinkles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white or yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8–10 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, expect around 20 minutes before you can enjoy your soft and colorful cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, beat together the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms. Be sure not to overmix.
3. Add the Sprinkles:
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of rainbow sprinkles to the dough, taking care not to overmix so the colors don’t bleed.
4. Form the Cookies:
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop spoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Press a few extra sprinkles on top of each cookie for a fun, festive look.
5. Bake:
Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. Remember, the cookies will continue to cook slightly after you take them out of the oven.
6. Cool and Store:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Enjoy your delicious, soft, and colorful cake mix cookies with a cold glass of milk or your favorite drink. Perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat anytime!
Can I Use a Different Flavor Cake Mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chocolate, funfetti, or any other cake mix flavor you like. Just keep in mind the texture and color may vary slightly depending on the mix.
Can I Substitute Butter for the Vegetable Oil?
Yes, melted butter works great and adds a richer flavor. Just make sure it’s cooled slightly before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them and thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins Besides Sprinkles?
Definitely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit are all tasty additions. Add about 1/2 cup and fold them in gently before scooping the dough.
